High deductible health plans may be bad for your health

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that people enrolled in high deductible health plans (HDHPs) are more likely to skip medical care because of the high out of pocket costs required by the plans.  Lower-income individuals are even more likely than higher-income individuals, with more than 60% of the former and about 43% of the latter reporting they had delayed or foregone needed care in the previous 6 months. The researchers conclude that plan sponsors and policy makers should consider modifying plan design in order to encourage better health management for individuals and families in HDHPs. -- Reuters