Sick guy with dog One out of three lower-income employees skip or delay care that they need because they can't afford it—and that results in a nearly 70 percent increase in sick days. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Health care is expensive. But doing without it can be even more costly—and not just for the person who needs it. And that might make employers rethink their health plans.

According to a new study from the Integrated Benefits Institute, someone who skips care when he needs it is also costing his employer money that might better be spent elsewhere. The report says that one out of three lower-income employees skip or delay care that they need because they can't afford it—and that results in a nearly 70 percent increase in sick days.

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Marlene Satter

Marlene Y. Satter has worked in and written about the financial industry for decades.