Truven Health Analytics (Ann Arbor, Mich.) recently studied trends in healthcare costs and utilization patterns regarding consumer-directed health plans.
The study, which was conducted based on data from the MarketScan Commercial Claims Database, found that CDHPs save money and the cost reductions mainly stem from lower utilization of healthcare services.
Here are five things to know about consumer-directed health plans based on the study.
1. CDHP members incurred healthcare costs that were between $457 and $532 per member per year lower than privately-insured individuals with traditional (non-CDHP) plans. This reduction, which was primarily influenced by lower utilization among CDHP members, occurred throughout all service settings, including inpatient and outpatient, along with lower use of prescription drugs.
2. CDHP members were less likely to receive medical care for existing chronic conditions than their non-CDHP counterparts. The finding was based on a review of eight common conditions, including asthma, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, depression, diabetes, hypertension, low back disorders and osteoarthritis.
3. CDHP membership grew. Between 2007 and 2013, the number of organizations offering a CDHP doubled and the number of members enrolled in a CDHP quadrupled.
4. Generic drug utilization was higher among CDHP members. This indicates that CDHP members were making wise choices in the use of brand name prescription drugs.
5. The percentage of CDHP members receiving recommended tests and prescription drugs for coronary artery disease and diabetes was lower than expected. This finding could indicate potential under-diagnosis and under-treatment. It could also be reflective of lifestyle risk improvements in the CDHP population.