Healthcare issues

Health savings account participants are more engaged in their healthcare decisions but still see HSAs as ways for reducing medical expense.

Although employer-provided health plans include mental health and substance abuse care benefits, barriers — such as a lack of in-network providers — prevent workers from accessing the care.

While more employers are offering a flu shot benefit, it can be difficult to get workers to sign up.

Arthritis, obesity and depression are among the ailments having the biggest impact on rising plan costs, according to research from the International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans.

Telemedicine is an effective option for patients who have trouble getting to the doctor’s office, but complex state laws make it difficult to provide service to everyone.

Consumers are still not fluent in simple financial concepts, which may lead them to spend more out of pocket on healthcare.