Does Social Capital Improve Community-based Integrated Care Systems?

This study investigates three components of social capital (hereinafter SC). It also examines whether SC improves community-based integrated care systems by increasing individuals’ self-rated health and subjective well-being. First, multiple regression analysis is conducted based on data from a survey conducted in 2017-18 in Kawasaki, Japan, (2,457 respondents, 44.8% valid). The results show that two components of SC, regional trust and participation in horizontal networks, affect self-rated health and subjective well-being, even controlling for socioeconomic status. Second, propensity score analysis clarifies that SC promotes self-rated health and subjective well-being, but not vice versa. Finally, the study concludes that in aiming to improve self-rated health and subjective well-being, approaching the whole population, not only its high-risk members, is more effective. This study concludes that enhancing individual and regional SC will improve community-based integrated care systems in Kawasaki, which are inclusive of all citizens.