Consumer-Directed Health Insurance Products: Local-Market Perspectives

May/June 2006
Health Affairs, Vol. 25, No. 3
Lydia E. Regopoulos, Jon B. Christianson, Gary Claxton, Sally Trude

During the past few years, health plans have focused product development on consumer-driven health plans. This paper examines how these products are faring in twelve Community Tracking Study (CTS) communities. Although there has been a proliferation in the number and variety of consumer-directed plan options available, employers have taken a cautious approach. Given the increased financial stake and decision-making responsibility consumers hold when enrolled in these plans, respondents expressed frustration that the availability of information support has lagged behind the demands placed on consumers.

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