• A survey of 1,000 U.S. adults reveals widespread confusion and concerns over healthcare plan selection, with affordability and coverage gaps as key issues.
  • The study highlights growing interest in Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs) as an alternative to traditional employer-sponsored insurance.

A recent survey of 1,000 U.S. adults highlights widespread concerns about healthcare coverage selection, with nearly 90% of respondents identifying at least one significant challenge.

The findings reflect ongoing struggles with affordability, provider networks, and plan flexibility, underscoring the complexity of healthcare choices in the United States.

The survey, conducted by healthcare technology firm Softheon, Inc., and its subsidiary W3LL, indicates that Americans increasingly seek more accessible and affordable options beyond traditional employer-sponsored health plans.

Among the alternatives gaining traction are Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs), which allow employees to select their own individual health insurance plans with employer financial support.

“Our survey confirms what many Americans already know: Healthcare plan selection needs to be simpler and easier,” said Eugene Sayan, founder and CEO of Softheon and W3LL.

He emphasized the importance of providing individuals with greater control over their coverage options, particularly through alternatives like ICHRAs.

ICHRAs have seen significant adoption growth, increasing by 29% among small employers and 84% among large employers from 2023 to 2024, according to Remodel Health. Unlike traditional employer-sponsored insurance, these arrangements offer flexibility and portability, allowing employees to maintain their coverage even when changing jobs.

The survey also sheds light on specific concerns regarding healthcare selection. Only 14% of respondents expressed confidence in choosing the right plan, while 36% feared losing coverage if they changed jobs.

Additionally, 30% were specifically concerned about selecting an inadequate plan, with Generation X (33%) and Baby Boomers (32%) expressing the highest levels of apprehension. Provider networks also emerged as a critical issue, with 43% of respondents worried about limited choices and 41% citing concerns over potential coverage gaps.

Affordability remains a dominant factor in healthcare decisions. High costs were the top concern for 67% of respondents, while 63% believed employer financial contributions could enhance their healthcare experience. Half of the survey participants prioritized low out-of-pocket expenses, while 46% stressed the importance of affordable monthly premiums. Cost transparency was also a major factor in healthcare confidence, with 52% of respondents identifying it as a key consideration.

Despite the growing interest in alternative health coverage models, awareness of ICHRAs remains relatively low, with only 22% of respondents familiar with the concept. However, the demand for affordability and clarity in healthcare suggests that these arrangements could see increased adoption as more employers and employees explore their benefits.

Edited by Harshajit Sarmah