It is often said that health equals wealth, but unfortunately, the converse is also true: wealth can equal health.

The ability to pay for healthcare determines not only a household’s financial health but also its well-being. Without adequate financial protection, healthcare is oftentimes paid for directly out-of-pocket by patients and their families, and when it exceeds 10 percent of a household’s income, it is considered catastrophic.

This report studies the application of digital financial services to mutually support financial inclusion and improve healthcare access and resilience.