Page 258 - India Insurance Report 2023- BIMTECH

246 India Insurance Report - Series II

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

The study’s background reveals a critical relationship between financial inclusion and healthcare
access for households in Dhaka, Tangail, and Meherpur. With findings indicating limited health insurance
coverage and a lack of awareness about insurance services, financial literacy and tailored health insurance
products emerge as key areas for improvement. The study highlights the importance of embracing
technology, such as telehealth services, to enhance healthcare accessibility. Additionally, promoting
inclusive decision-making in healthcare and ensuring affordability of treatment costs are crucial steps
towards advancing financial inclusion in the health sector. By addressing these challenges and implementing
strategic recommendations, policymakers, healthcare providers, and financial institutions can work
together to bridge the gap between financial inclusion and healthcare, ensuring that every household has
the necessary financial resources to secure their well-being and that of their loved ones.

1.2 Rationale

As mentioned above few studies have been conducted to explore health seeking behavior but no
particular study has been conducted before to understand the demand and affordability of health insurance
service. Moreover, a household’s health expense plays a greater role in overall financial inclusion; thus,
it’s important to identify and connect the study with both health experience, health insurance and
financial inclusion.