Most People Still Unaware About Provider-Sponsored Health Insurance in the United States

Availability of individual health care plans by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has decreased the percentage of Americans getting health insurance through their employers. But most are still not seriously considering getting coverage sponsored by hospitals or health systems.//A study by Valence Health found that most people are unaware of provider-backed care and are unsure of whether it represents a potential alternative to their current coverage.

The study reported that only 13 percent were "somewhat likely" and 8 percent were "very likely" to switch to a plan offered by their local hospital. In contrast, 28 percent were "very unlikely" and 7 percent were "somewhat unlikely” and 44 percent were unsure.

Over the quality of care in a provider-backed plan nearly two-thirds of respondents( 65 percent) were unsure. Thirteen percent believed it would be somewhat higher, while the same percentage believed it would be somewhat lower.

Similarly, 55 percent were unsure of whether provider-sponsored insurance would lower costs. Twenty-six percent believed it would either be more expensive, while 19 percent believed it would be cheaper.

Finally, only a third of respondents believed getting coverage through their provider would mean better coordination of care, while 24 percent didn't believe it and 44 percent didn't know about it. 

Source-Medindia