Patients are increasingly focused on their financial experience, according to the ClearBalance 2018 healthcare consumerism study.
For the survey, ClearBalance, in conjunction with healthcare research firm Porter Research, asked more than 4,000 U.S. patients about their perceptions related to healthcare costs and how pay their healthcare costs.
Five findings:
1. Seventy-nine percent of respondents said they will ask their provider about payment options.
2. Ninety-four percent of respondents said they expect their provider to tell them about medical bill payment options, including using long-term financing.
3. Most respondents (92 percent) said they would go back to a healthcare facility that offers a loan program.
4. Thirty-six percent of respondents said they will delay care without patient financing.
5. Most respondents (89 percent) said they need more than 12 months to pay their healthcare costs.
"Healthcare consumer loyalty is influenced by how early and how often you communicate with patients about their estimated cost of care and their payment options," ClearBalance President and CEO Bruce Haupt concluded. "Consumers remember how they're treated while they’re repaying their medical bill and will compare their experiences with friends."
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