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.

This article is available at the Health Affairs Web site by clicking here. (Free access.)