The Role of Social Capital in the Health Check-Up Service Utilization in China
Title
The Role of Social Capital in the Health Check-Up Service Utilization in China
Alternative Author(s)
Liu, Chang
; Cho, Insook
Keyword
Social Capital
; Health Check-Up Service
; CHARLS
; Multilevel Logistics Regression Model
Publication Year
2024-03-31
Publisher
Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs
Citation
Health and Social Welfare Review Vol.44 No.1, pp.47-72
Abstract
Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this study examines the relationship between social capital and the utilization of health check-up services among middle-aged and elderly individuals in China. To address potential biases arising from interdependence within the same community, this study employs a multilevel logistic regression model. The empirical results provide strong evidence that an individual’s social capital significantly enhances the likelihood of accessing health check-up services among this demographic. The study highlights two key aspects. First, individuals with robust social networks providing financial or care support are more likely to participate in health check-up services. Second, individuals engaged in social activities are more inclined to utilize health check-up services compared to those isolated from their families or communities. This suggests that individuals with strong social capital are more likely to seek preventive healthcare services, potentially reducing the risk of hospitalization and improving their overall quality of life. In addition, this study uncovers disparities in the utilization of health check-up services between urban and rural areas. This discrepancy emphasizes the necessity for specific public health initiatives in China.