Question

How have Consumer-Driven Health Plans (CDHPs) and High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) changed health care service reimbursement and health insurance expectations?

In your responses to two other students, explain why you agree or disagree. Offer additional perspectives on how CDHPs and HDHPs have impacted patient care.

Answer 1

Consumer-Driven Health Plans (CDHPs) are types of health coverage that enables an individual’s employer to fund the HRA or the health reimbursement account. This account will be used tp pay out of pocket health care expenses. A High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) is a form of CDHP which protects individuals from catastrophic medical expenses. HDHPs offer a broader network and reduce an individual’s involvement with medical management.

CDHPs and HDHPs have changed health care service reimbursement and health insurance expectations. For reimbursements the funds available in HRA can be used to pay for pay out of pocket health care expenses, deductibles as well as co-payments. When in network providers are used then usually preventive services and diagnostic tests (appropriate as per age) are covered at no cost. In terms of health insurance expectations, participants now want to take a more active role in managing their health expenses and selecting their health care providers.