Influence of Socio-Economic Factors on Risk Management Strategies among Generation Z in India pertaining to Health: A Post-Pandemic Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption of health insurance and buy intention among Generation Z in India during the period after the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of healthcare readiness and fiscal stability, hence emphasizing the crucial role of health insurance in the lives of individuals and households. Generation Z, encompassing individuals born approximately from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, constitutes a noteworthy demographic cohort characterised by distinct inclinations and conduct. This study investigates the demographic features of individuals, their level of knowledge and awareness regarding health insurance, their attitudes towards risk, and the influence of the pandemic on their perceptions. Preliminary data suggest that the Gen Z population in India understands the significance of health insurance. However, some obstacles impede their adoption of such insurance, including a lack of comprehensive knowledge, budgetary limitations, and a tendency to prioritise immediate financial objectives. Moreover, the ongoing global pandemic has significantly impacted individuals’ perception of healthcare risks and financial planning, potentially affecting their inclination to allocate resources towards health insurance investments. This study enhances our comprehension of the changing patterns of health insurance adoption in India, specifically among the youngest cohort, and offers valuable insights for insurers, policymakers, and healthcare providers to customise their offerings and communication approaches in order to effectively address the requirements of Generation Z in the aftermath of the pandemic. In conclusion, promoting the adoption of health insurance among this particular cohort has the potential to enhance financial resilience and facilitate improved access to healthcare for future generations in India