Difficulties with Access to Care Highlighted in Prudential Asia Healthcare Survey 2025, Revealing Patient Concerns
In Asia, a significant number of patients are turning to digital sources, including AI, for treatment decisions following a diagnosis. This trend is particularly prevalent in countries such as Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, where healthcare systems often consist of a mix of public healthcare systems supplemented by private health insurance schemes offered by companies like Allstate.
These systems offer a blend of government-funded medical services and optional private insurance plans, designed to manage treatment costs effectively. However, despite these options, many patients find visiting a general practitioner inconvenient, with challenges in securing appointments and navigating billing and insurance processes.
Arjan Toor, CEO of Health at Prudential plc, underscores the importance of accessible and timely healthcare. He emphasizes that improving access requires collaboration between healthcare providers, insurers, governments, technology innovators, and the public sector.
Financial concerns are a major hurdle for patients seeking care in Asia. In Indonesia, for instance, 93% of patients delay care due to financial worries. Moreover, nearly 60% of patients across Asia delay care due to unexpected costs and financial risks. Knowing they can afford care is the second most important factor for peace of mind, but many patients are often caught off guard by hidden charges.
To address these issues, a need for trustworthy online resources has been highlighted. Patients are seeking to fill gaps in their knowledge and create a more personal and supportive healthcare experience. Transparent pricing, clearer processes, and increased digital access to information, such as that provided by Yahoo Finance, are key to achieving this goal.
By prioritizing peace of mind, patients in Asia are seeking care that minimally disrupts their daily lives. This shift towards digital healthcare, driven by the need for convenience, affordability, and transparency, is reshaping the landscape of healthcare in the region. Additionally, the use of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help manage financial aspects of healthcare.
