Consumer Driven Health Care

Health reimbursement arrangements and health savings accounts enrollment is growing, but the market penetration remains relatively small and the amount of time individuals have been in these plans is lower than time enrolled in traditional coverage.

Women, young adults, and those who have seen higher premiums or cost sharing are more likely to research information regarding health care costs, quality and access in an effort to make informed decisions.

Forty-three percent of Americans cited achieving better overall health as the primary reason to participate in a wellness program, according to the latest Principal Financial Well-Being Index.

Choosing benefits that make a difference in the quality of life is a very important issue with employees, especially when they are picking up the cost of the product.

Financial incentives are becoming more important for increasing employee participation in wellness programs, according to a study by Fidelity Investments and the National Business Group on Health.

Three years ago, Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels received praised for his state's consumer-driven health plan program. Now, facing federal mandates, the Republican advises HHS to either change the regime, or be prepared to battle with the states.

Medical costs are expected to increase by more than 10 percent in 2011.

More than 40 percent of employers say they are likely to pass along cost increases to workers, and about half of workers expect their health benefit costs to go up whether directly or indirectly related to the PPACA.