Most Using Employer Health Care Plan to Continue

May 24, 2010 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – Most U.S. workers who use employer sponsored health care coverage plan to continue to do so in the future, according to a survey conducted jointly by the National Business Group on Health and Hewitt Associates.

The survey of more than 3,000 American workers and their dependents, conducted in March 2010, found that the majority of Americans (61%) currently use employer-sponsored health care coverage and participate in healthy living/wellness programs. Among those, nearly half (47%) plan to continue to do so in the next three-to-five years.  

However, 35% indicated they would consider dropping employer coverage if they were eligible to purchase similar coverage for a lower cost in the marketplace, according to a Hewitt news release.  

The survey also found a majority of workers and dependents are confused when it comes to which information to trust and what to do about their health. The top employee obstacles to making informed health care choices cited by respondents were not knowing which information to trust (58%), followed by confusion over what is covered by the plan (54%), not knowing how much things cost (47%), and ability to quickly see a doctor when needed (42%).  

Employees and their dependents are asking for more personalized communication that is relevant to them, the announcement said. Almost half (44%) want customized, targeted reminders that are appropriate for them based on factors such as their age and gender, 41% would like personalized health program recommendations, and 40% requested online personal health records.