In a recent New York Times “Your Money” column, DPM researcher Frank Wharam, MB, BCh, BAO, MPH discusses the results of his recently published Medical Care article, which found that of subscribers in high-deductible health care plans, men are more likely than women to avoid necessary medical care. Since the Affordable Care Act is expected to increase the number of people enrolled in high-deductible plans, enrollment in plans that have high out-of-pocket costs could further reduce use of health care services among men.
The NYT columnist reflects on the gender differences cited in Dr. Wharam’s study and offers men on high-deductible plans some questions to consider when deciding to seek medical care. Alison Galbraith, MD, MPH, also a contributor to the article, suggests men engage their physicians in conversation about the cost of medical care, and whether cheaper, alternative treatments are available.
To read the full New York Times article, click here.
To read Dr. Wharam’s study abstract, click here.