Working paper
Report cover

Natural disasters and the demand for health insurance

Publisher
Extreme weather events Disasters Health insurance Australia
Resources
Description

Natural disasters have profound repercussions on various societal aspects globally, affecting social dynamics, health outcomes, and economic stability. Scholarly inquiries have underscored the pivotal role of insurance as a primary coping mechanism adopted by individuals impacted by natural disasters to mitigate the risks associated with future calamities. 

However, prevailing research predominantly delves into the nexus between natural disasters and residential insurance, primarily aimed at shielding individuals from subsequent physical property damages. This exclusive focus may inadvertently overlook potential alternative strategies that affected individuals employ to mitigate future health-related risks stemming from such disasters. 

This study broadens the scope of investigation to encompass the influence of natural disasters on the demand for health insurance.

The findings unveil that both contemporaneous and preceding cyclones, particularly those of greater severity, substantially increase the likelihood of individuals procuring private health insurance (PHI). 

This study contributes novel and robust evidence regarding the impact of natural disasters, specifically cyclone exposure, on the demand for health insurance. The identification of an increased likelihood of PHI uptake among individuals from economically advantaged backgrounds, particularly indicated by homeownership or higher income, underscores the necessity for tailored support policies targeting vulnerable populations to utilize this natural disaster coping mechanism.

Publication Details
License type:
CC BY-NC-ND
Access Rights Type:
open
Series:
Life Course Centre Working Paper 2024-14