DataPath researchers cite several key takeaway messages from their study:

• Consumers who altered how they manage their health care during the pandemic likely will retain those behavioral changes.
• Millions of consumers attempt to avoid severe illness and manage chronic health conditions using body patches, smartwatches and similar digital devices. Nearly 1 in 7 American adults now own a smartwatch, and about 1 in 7 of those bought their device during the pandemic.
• Clinicians maintain a lingering skepticism toward digital wellness devices. Only 10% of doctors have integrated data from patient wearables into electronic health records.
• Consumers now look at wellness as including six dimensions — better health, better fitness, better nutrition, better appearance, better sleep and better mindfulness.
• Consumers are lagging in mobile app adoption because of fears about the privacy of their health care information. However, they are significantly more likely to use a health care app if it is specifically recommended by their provider or if convinced it would result in better information about their health.
• Although not specifically a response to digital health care, the rise in ICHRAs intersects with the rise of consumer engagement in personal health care.
• A major reason for the growth in lifestyle spending accounts, despite their post-tax status, is the lack of regulatory restrictions. This enables employers to address all six dimensions of wellness with a single benefit account and start the plan at any point in the calendar year.
• Expenses eligible for reimbursement under existing tax-advantaged accounts — FSAs, HRAs and HSAs – will continue evolving in response to the growth in digital technologies.

Related: Unlocking the full potential of digital health benefits for employees