Healthcare research released from Xerox shows large disconnects between patients and healthcare professionals providing and insuring their care. This research suggests that across all participants in the U.S. healthcare system, there is still much to be settled regarding the transformation driven by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Who is Responsible for Consumers’ Health?
According to a press release from Xerox, nearly 50% of consumers say they take complete responsibility for their health, whereas less than 6% of healthcare professionals believe this to be true. In addition, less than 5% of consumers say they don’t know how to take charge of their own healthcare, but nearly 40% of payers and providers say consumers don’t know how to take charge.
Moreover, 90% of payers and providers say patients need encouragement and help from their healthcare provider to make living a healthier lifestyle a priority, but only 55% of patients say they need such encouragement.
The study, conducted by Y&R’s BAV Consulting on behalf of Xerox, surveyed 761 U.S. adults who purchase health insurance and are healthcare decision makers for their households and 204 healthcare payers and providers.
Are Patients Shopping Around?
The research also found discrepancies between patients and professionals regarding a patient’s willingness to shop for healthcare.
Only 34% of consumers are more likely to shop around for a provider than they were one year ago, but more than 71% of payers and providers think patients are shopping.
When asked what consumers consider the top priority when selecting a provider, consumers said quality of care is number one. But payers and providers believe whether or not they take the patient’s insurance plan is the top consideration.
Ninety-five percent of payers and providers believe patients are not seeking or delaying treatment due to cost concerns, but only 42% of consumers say this is true.
What is the Solution?
Over 63% of consumers wish their pharmacist, healthcare provider and insurance company were more connected on their personal health.
