Curious how Belgians perceive healthcare and health insurance?

Insurope, THE premier multinational pooling network, is pleased to share findings from the FSI Health Insurance Report, conducted by its Network Member in Belgium, AG, in collaboration with Deloitte. AG, founded in 1824, is the leader in the Belgian insurance market, with 2.7 million clients.
The study explores how Belgians perceive healthcare and health insurance, highlighting critical insights into affordability, transparency, and evolving citizen expectations.

Belgium is home to an extensive healthcare system, with 99% of the population covered by compulsory health insurance and nearly 85% opting for complementary health policies. However, as with any country, some challenges still exist. These issues present opportunities for improvement and innovation.

Key Findings

• 84% of Belgians hold at least one complementary health insurance policy, primarily for hospitalization coverage through mutual health funds.
• Over a third delay or avoid care due to financial constraints.
• More than 25% struggle to afford unexpected medical costs above €200, and when costs exceed €500, half of respondents face financial hardship.
• 44% of respondents are unaware of their personal costs before committing themselves to treatment.
• Individuals aged 18-49 report significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to older groups.
• Young adults (25-34 years) have a strong preference for digital health solutions and have distinct expectations about healthcare compared to older generations.

These findings highlight the need for greater accessibility, transparency, and financial sustainability in healthcare. Insurers have a key role in addressing these challenges through integrated reimbursement systems, prevention-focused initiatives, and enhanced public-private collaboration.

Recommendations for Improvement

To improve healthcare access and affordability, the study recommends considering several key strategies:

Promoting Preventive Healthcare

A shift toward prevention can enhance long-term health outcomes including public awareness campaigns, incentives for preventative care and expanded use of digital health tools.

Empowering Employers to Support Employee Wellbeing

Workplace initiatives can significantly impact public health such as offering wellness programs that address physical and mental health, and reducing workplace stress.

Reducing Health Disparities

Socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in healthcare access. Actions can include addressing disparities, targeted programs for underserved communities, community outreach, and expansion of telemedicine services.

Improving Financial Transparency and Protection

Enhancing affordability and clarity can ease financial burdens. Key measures include increasing awareness of complementary insurance coverage and Providing upfront cost estimates.

Adapting to the Needs of Younger Generations

Younger individuals have different healthcare expectations. Effective strategies include leveraging digital channels for better communication and engagement, expanding mental health services and educating individuals on healthcare billing and insurance options.

Expanding Digital Integration Across Healthcare Stakeholders

Technology can improve efficiency and coordination within the healthcare system including streamlining data exchange between insurers, providers, and policymakers and encouraging collaboration for innovation in healthcare solutions.

Addressing these challenges through targeted reforms can strengthen Belgium’s healthcare system, ensuring it remains equitable, transparent, and efficient for all citizens. Download the full report HERE.