How Public Service Accessibility Affects Health of Migrants: Evidence from China

Abstract

Background: The effects of public service accessibility on migrant health can provide insights for local governments to optimize public service resource allocation. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between public service accessibility and the health of heterogeneous migrant populations in China, as well as the underlying mechanisms of this relationship. Materials and Methods: Data from the 2017 China Migrants Dynamic Survey were utilized, employing ordinary least squares, instrumental variable estimation, and mediating and moderating effect analyses. Results: Findings of the regression analysis suggest a positive association between public service accessibility and better health outcomes for migrants, particularly for less educated migrants. Mediating effect analysis revealed that both public service equalization and efficiency significantly mediate the relationship between public service accessibility and migrant health. Enhanced equalization of public services was strongly linked to improved health outcomes among less educated migrants. In contrast, improved public service efficiency significantly benefit highly educated migrants. Moderating effect analysis showed that administrative hierarchy and public service expenditure preference negatively influence the effects of public service accessibility on migrant health. This diminishing effect is more pronounced among less educated migrants in cities with higher administrative hierarchies and among highly educated migrants in cities with a higher proportion of public service expenditure. Conclusion: This study highlights the relationship between public service accessibility and improved migrant health. Its findings suggest that optimized allocation of public service resources could enhance health equity in China’s migrant population.