Did HDHPs miss the mark? What EBRI found

Did we miss the mark with High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)?

The data says... maybe.

Here’s what the Employee Benefit Research Institute found:
• HDHPs don’t change overall plan spending.
• They reduce spending for people with no health conditions—by $60.30.
• But they increase spending for those with two or more conditions—by $2,490.
• They also lead to more inpatient hospitalization days.

What does this mean for employers?

➡️ Don’t just set up HSAs—seed them. People need to access care when they need it, without fear.

➡️ Consider pairing HDHPs with HRAs. This creates flexibility without risking care gaps.

➡️ Explore alternatives like Direct or Advanced Primary Care. These options can bypass the deductible barrier altogether.

➡️ Invest in health literacy. Teach employees how to navigate, negotiate, and manage their care.

Mostly, remember this: Fear, especially financial fear, drives unproductive and harmful behaviors.

Help your employees feel secure in their health options. When you do, everyone wins.

Note that some strategies may interfere with HSA eligibility, but that isn’t always a bad thing. Make sure you talk to an expert so that you make those decisions with open eyes.

Read the report here: https://lnkd.in/eJQccQrb