Throwing fuel into the CDHP fire, WellPoint announced that it will make all of its CDHP products available in all markets to both employers and individuals beginning on January 1, 2007. Execs say that consumer interest in CDHPs led the insurer to make the plans more accessible and estimates that it could save patients up to $400 dollars a year over traditional plans. "More informed consumers can make better health care decisions and improve their health, which can help to control rising health care costs and help our members lead healthier lives," John Watts, president and CEO of WellPoint's Anthem National Accounts said in a release.
Maybe WellPoint execs didn't see the latest study which found that consumers aren't buying into the whole CDHP craze. Patients are hesitant to research cost and quality data even if it's readily available--a serious problem if they have a CDHP. At this point, it's hard to tell whether this and other recent CDHP offerings are based on consumer interest or are simply a result of wishful thinking on the part of insurers (and the Bush administration for that matter). But regardless of where the trend is headed, it's having a real impact on the healthcare landscape since the promise of CDHPs has been a major force behind the numerous transparency initiatives we've seen this year.
To learn more about WellPoint's CDHP initiative:
- read this UPI article
- and see WellPoint's press release
ALSO: Learn more about WellPoint subsidiary Blue Cross of California's pay for performance program in this exclusive FierceHealthcare interview
