Only 38% of consumers know how to check what their health insurance covers, but the same proportion felt confident choosing a health insurance plan that suited their needs, while 36% knew what questions to ask when selecting a plan or reviewing their coverage.
Only 34% said they understood health insurance terms, highlighting difficulties consumers face when comparing policies and using their benefits, according to Cigna Healthcare's International Health Study 2026.
The findings were based on a survey of 12,000 adults across 13 markets, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom, conducted in July 2026 in collaboration with YouGov.
The report also found that healthcare costs and waiting times affected access to medical services.
About 16% of respondents said they had needed medical care but went without it because of cost, whilst 24% delayed or avoided treatment in the past 12 months because of concerns over long waiting times.
Among those who experienced delays in accessing healthcare, 51% said their own or a family member's physical or mental health suffered.
Another 41% reported disruptions to their ability to work or maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Mr Jason Sadler, President of International Health at Cigna Healthcare, said insurers need to simplify how consumers understand and use their coverage.
“As insurers and health care providers, we have an opportunity to make the next step clearer through simpler processes, plain-language communication and personalised support, particularly where health needs are complex,” Sadler said.
The study also found that 93% of respondents considered taking an active role in their healthcare important, whilst 88% reported taking steps to prevent or minimise health problems, reported The Asian Business Review.