Kathmandu. Access to health care in Asian countries is complex and expensive. High treatment costs, lack of information and limited access to services discourage large numbers of people from seeking treatment.
A recently published research report shows that insurance companies need to play an effective and leading role in changing this scenario. The report, titled “The Voice of Patients: Experiencing Access to Healthcare in Asia”, was prepared by Economist Impact and published in collaboration with Prudential plc.
The report analysed the experiences of more than 4,200 patients in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore between April and May 2025. The report revealed that more than 80 per cent of patients in the region delayed seeking treatment, mainly due to economic uncertainty. “A third of patients believe that medical costs often exceed expectations,” the report said.
On the other hand, nearly half of patients rely on family support, donations, loans, or online crowdfunding to cover medical expenses, the report said. “This trend is most pronounced in Indonesia, where 93 per cent of patients have delayed treatment,” the report said.
Lack of guidance in Asian countries is also a major barrier to access to treatment. Most patients say they are unsure where to seek treatment.
About 60 percent of patients complained that long wait times, limited appointments, and complex billing and insurance procedures make it difficult to see a general practitioner. In addition, 55 per cent of the patients felt that they lacked adequate guidance. As a result, 40 percent of people turn to digital devices, especially artificial intelligence (AI), for more information after their doctor’s appointment.
According to Arjan Torre, CEO of Prudential Health, the insurance sector can make a real difference in the healthcare journey of patients. “Ensuring cost transparency, simplifying procedures, and ensuring patients receive support at every stage of treatment is key today,” Torre said.
Experts say addressing the limitations of Asia’s healthcare system requires three areas: financial security, easy access and reliable information. Without a concerted effort, people will be unable to rely entirely on hospital-based services. If insurance companies take steps to reduce costs, provide effective guidance to patients, and increase the use of technology, the region’s healthcare system could be transformed. Source: Insurance Asia
