Which group of employees is least likely to change health plans when facing increased out-of-pocket premiums?

Employees with chronic health conditions are least likely to change health plans when facing increased out-of-pocket premiums. This is primarily because individuals with chronic health conditions often have specific healthcare needs and rely on continuous access to particular providers, medications, and treatments. Changing health plans could disrupt their established care relationships and access to necessary services, which can be daunting due to the potential for higher costs or loss of coverage for essential treatments.

They may also be aware that new health plans could have different networks that might not include their current healthcare providers or specialists, further compounding the risk associated with change. Change can introduce uncertainty and potential gaps in care, which individuals with ongoing health issues seek to avoid. Therefore, despite rising costs, the need for consistent and reliable healthcare often outweighs concerns about premium increases, making this group less likely to switch plans.

In contrast, healthy employees may be more willing to shop around for better premium rates since they are not reliant on extensive healthcare services. Employees in high-deductible plans might also reconsider their options as they are already accustomed to managing their healthcare costs. Enrollees in HMO plans, which typically require members to use a network of doctors and facilities, might face similar considerations but are generally more open to change than those who