Tuesday, 20 December 2005
Can Consumer-Driven Plans Work?
Unless companies start doing a better job at providing information so people can compare costs and quality before seeking medical treatment, consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs) won’t deliver on their promises, reports Buisness Week Online.
According to a recent study, only 42% of people currently with a CDHP are satisfied with their coverage, below the 63% of people who are content with their traditional insurance.
Insurance companies have promised to begin providing web tools that will let consumers learn about cost-effective health care. Unfortunately the technology is a little lagging, and the health care and insurance industries remain reluctant to reveal real prices.
Yet CDHPs continue to be a fast-growing option in the country, and proponents contend that they do help consumers take an active role in their care and lowering their medical costs.
Technorati Tags: Health Insurance
