Consumers turn to online sources for medical information, still feel uninformed
In an ideal world, when it comes to your health, cost should not be a consideration. Unfortunately, the results from a recent survey found that just isn’t the case.
More than half of respondents (52.1 percent) admitted to postponing treatment for oneself or family member due to cost concerns.
The study, conducted by independent market research firm Lab42, polled 1,000 U.S. residents between the ages of 30 and 65. The conclusions included a number of interesting figures, such as:
- More than 80 percent of respondents admitted to searching for medical online while at work.
- More than 30 percent researched medical information for more than five hours at work.
- More than two of every five believed they lacked essential information before making a medical decision.
- Only 20 percent completely agreed that they were comfortable making healthcare decisions for their families.
"Today's health plan designs put employees squarely in the driver's seat, requiring them to be incredibly savvy consumers of healthcare," said David Hines, CEO of Consumer Medical who funded the survey. "Yet at the same time, this survey points to the fact that many consumers are negotiating the healthcare roadways simply without the information and support they need to make good decisions about their care."
Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.