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Short-term mortality and healthcare utilization consequences of pension income receipt: Evidence from South Korea

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  • Jeon, Mimi
  • Kim, Seonghoon
  • Koh, Kanghyock

Abstract

We examine short-term consequences of pension income receipt on mortality and healthcare utilization within the monthly payment cycle. Using the national death registry data of South Korea, we document that the mortality rate decreases by 1.2–1.4 percent in the week of the disbursement date. The mortality-reducing effects are larger for causes of death that could have been avoided through timely and effective healthcare interventions. Using healthcare claims data, we document that the number of hospital admissions increases during the disbursement week. We provide suggestive evidence of greater mortality-reducing effects from a smaller but more frequent disbursement than from a monthly disbursement.

Suggested Citation

  • Jeon, Mimi & Kim, Seonghoon & Koh, Kanghyock, 2025. "Short-term mortality and healthcare utilization consequences of pension income receipt: Evidence from South Korea," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 250(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:pubeco:v:250:y:2025:i:c:s0047272725001884
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2025.105490
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • H55 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Social Security and Public Pensions
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • I38 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs

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