Encouraging Smart

Consumerism

Three major trends in 2015

Health plans that encourage primary care, promote wellness programs and support pricing transparency put more power in the hands of members when it comes to managing their health.

That can mean good news for everyone: providers, employers and especially the members themselves.

1.) Stressing the importance of self-care

Self-care is important—that’s the message given by health plans that cover preventive services and screenings. This coverage typically includes annual wellness visits with a primary care physician and age and gender specific screenings.

Preventive care has health and financial benefits. On average, adults who have a relationship with a primary care doctor have 33 percent lower costs of care than those who do not. Preventive screenings based on age and gender help to proactively diagnose any potential health risks, such as cancer or heart disease. Identifying these diagnoses through screenings helps avoid poor health outcomes and costly reactive care.

2.) Encouraging wellness in the workplace

In 2015, 37% of employers plan to add wellness. No surprise after a recent RAND study found an average ROI of $3.80 for every $1 invested.

Encourage participation through incentive programs and by providing rewards such as premium differentials.

3.) Shine the light on price

Price can vary for identical procedures by as much as 500% in the same zip code. Protect your employees and your bottom line by bringing transparency to healthcare pricing.

Tools like Healthcare Bluebook are leading the way.

It’s important for members to understand how to utilize the healthcare system appropriately, and price transparency tools empower members to make smart choices.

Incentives should be in place to drive informed decisions and increase participation.

Improving care means involving every member and empowering them to play an active role in their healthcare. When they do, costs drop and health improves.

To learn more, view the full blog post here.