Feb 05 2010
Consumers frequently inquire about the difference between these plans. Most understand the basics of traditional medical insurance, but numerous don’t understand the nuances of a Health Savings Account – or HSA.
<h3>What is a Health Savings Account?</h3>
The easiest way to explain the difference may be to clarify what health savings accounts are not. They aren’t medical insurance polcies. Rather, they operate much like savings accounts setup at a bank. And they are always coupled with a high deductible medical insurance plan. That is to say, one could obtain high deductible medical insurance coverage with or without a health savings account attached to the plan. A Health Savings Account is exactly that – an account established to save money for future health expenses.
The idea behind HSA’s is fairly straightforward. Owners deposit funds into their accounts to be used later for eligible health expenses. Funds can be used for a variety of expenses – including (but not limited to) doctor visits, prescriptions and/or meeting the deductible.
<h3>Benefits of HSA Compatible Plans</h3>
Usually, Health Savings Accounts will be less costly than traditional insurance plans. The reason is that plan deductibles are higher. Therefore, the insurance company underwriting the plan won’t need to immediately cover small, incidental claims. The owner would use funds from the HSA for numerous of the incidentals – like physician visits, prescriptions, etc.
In addition, the attached savings account has significant tax advantages versus traditional health plans. Contributions into an HSA are tax deferred and the interest accumulates tax deferred – much like contributions to an IRA. Thus, when funds are withdrawn for eligible medical expenses, no taxes are due on those withdrawals. In this way, HSA’s provide tax advantages to the consumer twice – once when the money is deposited and again when it’s withdrawn.
<h3>Who Should Consider a HSA Compatible Plan?</h3>
Healthy individuals who infrequently visit the physician are good candidates. Individuals and families on a tight budget, but in need of cheap coverage could also consider a HSA plan. These consumers can pay smaller, minor health expenses out of the HSA, but should they have a significant claim, the medical insurance coupled with the plan is available once the deductible has been met.
Many employer sponsored group plans are already switching to HSA’s to lower their medical premium bills. The rising price of medical is forcing numerous corporations and small companygroups to change insurance plans in order to save money. A HSA compatible plan can be a fair compromise for the employee and the employer. Some employer groups will make contributions to the HSA to encourage workers to make the change.
<h3>Who Should Consider Traditional Insurance?</h3>
Consumers who want lower deductibles and more in immediate benefits tend to obtain traditional plans. In the insurance industry, this concept is called “first dollar benefit”. These are benefits the consumer receives without having to meet a deductible or co-insurance provisions. Examples of first dollar benefits include annual physicals, visits to a specialist or non-specialist, OBGYN visits and prescription coverage. While newer HSA plans are offering more in first dollar benefits, usually traditional medical insurance will provide the most in immediate benefits.
Traditional coverage can be more advantageous for families and/or middle aged or older consumers. These groups may be more likely to have several claims against their policies. They may desire more in immediate benefits. Additionally, they may have the resources available to afford more costly policies.
In summary, there are numerous medical insurance polcies available to the individual, family and companygroup. Choosing the right plan will often times involve balancing price with benefits. HSA compatible plans can be an cheap alternative to a traditional, lower deductible plan. Consumers, when working with an experienced independent agent, can usually find a suitable plan that fits their needs.