incentive based Health insurance
Posted By: the kid 
Date Posted: September 17th, 2009 Category: Health Care Reform
similar to some car insurers- has anyone thought to develop an incentive based health insurance. One that would pay back premiums if not used- Premise is similar to car insurance, and that if you are a careful driver with no incidents, that portions of your premiums are returned. THis way folks that only go for routine preventative care check-ups and live and maintain healthy lifestyles, then they should receive a reimbursement on their "investment"
Comment By: Cary Bynum
Date & Time: September 18, 2009 at 5:47 pm
I lke this
Comment By: Peter Czech
Date & Time: September 19, 2009 at 3:01 pm
I have this on my car insurance, like you mention. We get dividend payments based on what money in the pool wasn't paid out to claims. Between people driving carefully for larger refunds, and the fact that my insurance company is picky about who they cover, it is a large percentage payout every year. Also, they don't advertise like the other companies, so there is no budget spent there. That = low cost insurance.
Health companies should do the same, though, there is a difference between driving safe and an unfortunate illness, which would have to be considered. Also, you would have to make sure people don't avoid preventative care just for a larger refund, when that care could prevent more expensive problems later on.
Comment By: Jason Heller
Date & Time: September 20, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Wow good points. Peter you made me think twice after I was initially TOTALLY sold on the idea, which seems so simple. But also it's these premiums from those of us who fortunately don't use a lot of insurance benefits that help to pay for th ehealthcare of those that do need it.
I guess the preventative issue can be factored into some algorithm, the insurance copamnies are good at that kind of math!
So complicated!
Comment By: Scott Ragan
Date & Time: September 25, 2009 at 11:32 am
As someone who tries to make good health decisions, I love this idea. As we can see by our society, the opportunity to be healthier and feel better is not a sufficient incentive.
At the same time, does this type of structure penalize people of lower income or those living near or below the American poverty line? People falling into the middle or upper income bracket arguably have better dietary and activity choices available to them.
Comment By: Brad Pluhar
Date & Time: September 25, 2009 at 2:08 pm
I really like this idea. Creating incentive to be healthier is a great idea. Although Peter your example of your car insurance has a minor problem. They are picky in who they insure would not translate into health insurance for everybody. But the main premise could be beneficial.
Comment By: Mary McElwain
Date & Time: November 9, 2009 at 3:28 pm
This is a really good idea! Like a good drivers' insurance rate for not having any speeding tickets, people could realize a real benefit from staying healthy.