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Old 10-18-2009, 05:22 PM
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disneysteve disneysteve is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Scanner View Post
I think managed cost healthcare hasn't really worked and consumer directed healthcare will work better, at least somewhat.

That being said, I see the biggest downside of HSA's is the temptation and human nature to not spend your savings.
I agree with both sides of that issue. What we have now isn't working because the patient is too far removed from the cost and payment but putting the cost directly on the patient doesn't work either. I don't have the magic solution but I do think HSAs are a good step in the right direction. Although some patients may delay care, I think more patients will get the care but be more mindful of the cost. Twisted your knee an hour ago? Perhaps you don't need the MRI quite yet. Wait and see how it feels in a week. If it is better, you've saved yourself $1,000. If it still hurts, get the test. Today, with just a $20 copay, everyone wants the top of the line test for everything whether it is really indicated or not.
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