Patient Voices: Experiences of Healthcare Access in Asia

About this report

Patient Voices: experiences of healthcare access Asia is an Economist Impact report, commissioned by Prudential.

Drawing on a survey of more than 4,200 people and conversations with clinicians, academics and advocates, it charts the everyday obstacles of finding, affording and trusting care. The analysis reveals three pain points

– system complexity, cost shocks and information gaps

– that cut across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

Patient voices Indonesia: caught between care, cost and clarity

More than 9 in 10 Indonesians surveyed reported delaying treatment or seeking care, often due to financial responsibilities or prioritising childcare. For many patients, accessing healthcare remains far from hassle-free. Competing priorities, unclear health information, and a lack of trusted advice all play a big role in patients’ healthcare decisions.

Patient voices Singapore: towards more informed and seamless care

8 in 10 people in Singapore delayed medical care to prioritise work and avoid burdening family. It is also found that uncertainty over where to seek help along with worries about cost are major barriers. Better understanding of health costs and support for patients at every step are key to improving patient experiences.