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Can Households Cope with Health Shocks in Vietnam?

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: This paper investigates the economic impact of health shocks on working-age adults in Vietnam during 2004-2008, using a fixed effects specification. Health shocks cover disability and morbidity and are measured by 'days unable to carry out regular activity', 'days in bed due to illness/injury', and 'hospitalization'. Overall, Vietnamese households are able to smooth total non-health expenditures in the short run in the face of a significant rise in out-of-pocket health expenditures. However, this is accomplished through vulnerability-enhancing mechanisms, especially in rural areas, including increased loans and asset sales and decreased education expenditures. Female-headed and rural households are found to be the least able to protect consumption. Results highlight the need to extend and deepen social protection and universal health coverage. © 2015 The Authors. Health Economics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Source: Health Economics

DOI: 10.1002/hec.3196

Authors: Sophie Mitra, Michael Palmer, Daniel Mont, Nora Groce

Institutions: Fordham University, The University of Melbourne, University College London

Language: English

Topic: Healthcare Systems and Reforms

Subfield: Finance

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth, No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,050