Millennials get a bad rap for everything from narcissism to politically disengaged. One unique way Millennials are changing the world for the better is how they approach healthcare.
Millennials expect the same transparency in health care as they expect from all shopping experiences, the abilty to compare rates. This generation grew up being able to compare prices for everything from airfare to electronics.
Only 10% of the general population will inquire about costs for a medical treatment, 17% of 18 to 24 years olds said they ask about pricing in a recent Commonwealth study, and it increases again to 21 % for individuals between 25 to 34 (a group recently defining themselves as the Oregon Trail generation).
While older generations may be willing to accept the current healthcare system, millennials are speaking out against the inability to price check medical services.
Major insurance companies are listening. Aetna and United Health for example, are providing members with more online and mobile price comparison tools, making it easier for you to input a service and find the best priced provider in your area.
Why do Millennials Care About Health Costs?
Millennials are young and therefore, relatively healthy.
However, Millennials are currently finishing college with an average debt of $33,000. Youth unemployment rates have also soared and many young adults find themselves underemployed.
Quite simply, price shopping for healthcare services is a necessity to afford services within their strained budgets.
Act Like a Millennial (At Least with Healthcare)
Using online resources and conducting a small amount of research can ensure your family receives the same quality of care at a lower cost. While some states have chosen to create state-wide databases of actual fees charged to patients over time, Texas has not begun this type of program. Researching health-care pricing online can also help after you’ve already had a medical procedure, if you want to dispute a bill, negotiate pricing, or figure out if you’ve been overcharged.
