Confused consumers: when given options, what health plans do consumers choose - and why?

Article Abstract:

An employee's decision to choose a particular health care plan is based on a number of factors, including how much the employer pays for the plan and whether the plan allows the employee to choose his or her physician. However, data from the Congressional Budget Office shows that price is a relatively small consideration in choosing one plan over another. For example, a ten percent change in price would only prompt six percent of enrollees to change their health plan. Employees need standardized data in an easy-to-use format to help them weigh the differences, including cost differences, between plans.

Accident and health insurance, Economic aspects, Public opinion, Employee benefits, Health maintenance organizations

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Designing HIPCs

Article Abstract:

Some states are experimenting with health insurance purchasing cooperatives (HIPC), which use the principles of managed competition to solve coverage problems while maintaining consumer choice and control of pricing and quality. HIPCs invite insurance plans to compete for various segments of coverage. Views differ on whom HIPCs should serve, and how much control they should have to select plan participants. States may soon be limited by federal restrictions on funding, but they must make sure that employers and consumers are fairly represented by governing boards.

Marketing cooperatives

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Workers' health is retailer's business

Article Abstract:

Eddie Bauer started a three-month pilot program for its employees in the Seattle, WA, area that have just become mothers. The 'Home and Health' program began in April 1996 and offers new mothers and babies nursing care from Pediatric Home Care. Employees in Toronto, Canada, are covered by a similar program. The clothing store chain is unusual among employers in its willingness to provide home health care.

Apparel & Shoe Stores, Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores, APPAREL AND ACCESSORY STORES, All Other Miscellaneous Ambulatory Health Care Services, Health and allied services, not elsewhere classified, Maternal & Child Health Care, Usage, Compensation and benefits, Clothing stores, Maternal health services, Eddie Bauer Inc.

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