With millennials projected to surpass baby boomers as the largest adult generation in the U.S. within the next decade, it is imperative that the healthcare industry restructures and reprioritizes in order to reach them.
Here are six expectations millennials have regarding their healthcare, according to Joe Harpaz, president and COO of Boca Raton, Fla.-based software company Modernizing Medicine.
1. They take care into their own hands: Surveys have shown that many millennials prefer walk-in clinics to visiting a primary care provider, prioritizing efficiency over long-lasting physician relationships.
2. They do their research: Millennials regularly make medical decisions based on online advice and use online reviews to select healthcare providers.
3. They want up-front cost estimates: Not only do many millennials request cost estimates before a medical appointment, but they also often compare those estimates before choosing a provider.
4. They want apps — and lots of them: The vast majority of millennials would prefer to schedule appointments and receive follow-up information through a dedicated app, and many would also like to use an app for a telehealth visit rather than make an in-person appointment.
5. "Healthy" means more than "not sick": In general, this generation thinks of health as comprising mental well-being and overall wellness in additional to physical health.
6. Shopping for health insurance: If given the option, millennials prefer to evaluate their health insurance options online, and they typically prioritize cost above all else — including brand loyalty — when choosing a plan.
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