Do elections make you sick? Evidence from first-time voters

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Political Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Elections are crucial for democracy and economic development but can negatively impact public health.
• Previous research primarily focused on the mental health effects of elections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the impact of election periods on healthcare utilization and spending.
• To identify specific health conditions and demographic groups affected by election-related healthcare use.
• To explore the mechanisms linking electoral activities to health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A two-part model utilizing regression discontinuity design was applied to administrative healthcare claims data.
• Analysis incorporated data on campaign spending from local elections to identify transmission mechanisms.
• Demographic and geographic factors influencing healthcare spending during election periods were examined.

Main Results:

• Healthcare utilization increased by up to 19% for first-time voters during legally defined campaign periods.
• Spending focused on physical health conditions (respiratory infections, gastrointestinal issues, injuries), not mental health.
• Increased medical spending was most pronounced in rural areas and among low-to-middle-income men.
• Campaign rallies were identified as a significant factor in disease transmission.

Conclusions:

• Election periods are associated with significant increases in healthcare utilization, particularly for physical ailments.
• Campaign activities, such as rallies, contribute to disease transmission and elevated healthcare costs.
• Findings support policies limiting campaign spending due to its potential for social waste and negative health externalities.