Reference no: EM132057014

Do you think that high-deductible health plans with a health savings account (HDHP/HSA) plans will change the habits of individuals?  advantages/disadvantages?

Idea: the consumer understands the high costs of the medical expenses (because they have a high individual or family deductible), the consumer will be more thoughtful on whether to use the health insurance. Essentially, it's asking you "do you really need to visit the doctor or should you just take some over-the-counter medication and get some rest." The health savings account allows the employer and you to fund the account to use for the deductible; any monies left in the account at year-end roll over to the next year. The sell is the health individuals will have monies available later on compared to those that continue to use the health plan. The premiums are about $2,000 per year per insured compared to the other plans, even though HDHP/HSA plans are also PPO's or HMO's (or indemnity). Employers are using the savings to help fund the HSA account, but most employees do not know that the employer is saving money because they do not have to pay FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare). However, unless you belong to a union that has bargained the health insurance plan in your contract, there is no guarantee the employer will fund the HSA, or if they do initially, that they will continue the same amount (or less) in the future.