Forrester Research takes a look at the longer term implications of U.S. consumers delaying medical care in the current economic recesssion.

Healthcare is often considered a “recession-proof ” industry because, regardless of the state of the
economy, people get sick and therefore need healthcare products and services. However, Forrester found that:

Delaying care is on the rise. In 2006, approximately one in five US households reported having put off or avoided treatment due to cost concerns. By 2008, that figure was up to almost one in four.
The uninsured are the most likely to delay care. Non-elderly (younger than 65) uninsured consumers are the most likely to put off or forgo treatment for cost reasons.
Seniors increasingly delay care. The percentage of elderly consumers (65 and older) covered by government and/or commercial insurance who delayed care increased by 67% from 2006 to 2008.

While delaying care saves money in the short term, it often costs huge sums in the long run. Why? Because conditions that go untreated can lead to major complications requiring more involved treatment.

As a result, Forrester predicts that “Value-Based Insurance Design” will proliferate. VBID plans build incentives and condition-based cost controls into plans by tying varying deductibles to preventive care or reducing copays based on the severity of the member’s condition. In addition, hospitals and other institutions will get more involved in community care.

For details see: Consumers Delay Healthcare Due To Economic Woes.