'Net Plans' Use Web to Help Patients Buy Health Insurance
New breed of Internet-based plans promise lower costs, fewer hassles, and higher patient-doctor satisfaction.
A new breed of health plans is emerging via the Internet, promising a solution to two pressing issues in health care: rising costs and growing dissatisfaction with managed care.
Consumerism is the driving force behind these Net plans, which transcend traditional labels such as "insurer" or "third-party administrator." In fact, analysts still are not sure how to categorize them or what to include in the grouping. New models have been unveiled in recent weeks, and more are in development.
What these plans share is their use of the Web to get patients more directly involved in purchasing medical care. Where they differ is their type of cafeteria-style offerings, some being "all you can eat" services for one price, and others charging on a per item basis.
New breed of Internet-based plans promise lower costs, fewer hassles, and higher patient-doctor satisfaction.
A new breed of health plans is emerging via the Internet, promising a solution to two pressing issues in health care: rising costs and growing dissatisfaction with managed care.
Consumerism is the driving force behind these Net plans, which transcend traditional labels such as "insurer" or "third-party administrator." In fact, analysts still are not sure how to categorize them or what to include in the grouping. New models have been unveiled in recent weeks, and more are in development.
What these plans share is their use of the Web to get patients more directly involved in purchasing medical care. Where they differ is their type of cafeteria-style offerings, some being "all you can eat" services for one price, and others charging on a per item basis.
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