High Deductible Health Plans Affect Consumer Behavior

A study of high deductible health plans (like HSAs) shows that people who have this type of health coverage are less likely to visit the hospital and more likely to seek free preventative care. This UnitedHealth study examined consumer behavior over three years. UnitedHealth offers free preventative care exams, but patients must pay for other health care received out-of-pocket until they reach the deductible. This study confirms that consumers do use cost as a factor when determining when to seek health care.