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Self-Directed Health Plans (SDHP)


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A self directed health plan (SDHP) combines the features of a PPO-based plan with the added feature of a Self Directed Account (SDA). The SDA is funded with a maximum quarterly allowance and yearly balance to use for certain types of routine or preventive care services. Unused funds roll over to next year, allowing enrollees to save for health care expenses.

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What are my options?

SignatureFreedom, the self directed health plan from PacifiCare, for instance, gives an allowance of $1,000 per year ($250 per quarter) in a Self Directed Account (SDA). It can be used for certain types of preventative care services, including:

  • Consultations
  • Physical Exams
  • Well Baby
  • Well Woman
  • Physician Home and Office Visits
  • Diagnostic Testing
  • Immunizations
  • Office Radiology

If you don't use the entire $1,000 in your SDA each year, the remaining funds will be rolled over to use the next year and the year after that, allowing you to build a savings for health care expenses.

 

Is a SDHP the plan for me?

If you don't go to the doctor that often, a plan like this might be just right for you. It's affordable, so you're not overpaying for services you'll never use, yet your SDA allows you to get the preventative care you need to stay healthy.

High deductibles mean that if you need medical care that isn't covered by your SDA, like inpatient surgery or emergency room visits, your plan will cover what's left once you pay the deductible. Pharmacy benefits entitle you to prescription drug coverage.

What's more is that you can see any doctor you want. But if you want to be rewarded with lower costs, you can choose a provider from the approved PPO network.

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Key Facts...

In 2005 $2 trillion was spent on health care services in the United States. On average, each person was responsible for a total annual health care bill of $6,700. Is your health insurance plan working for you and your family?

Source: National Coalition on Health Care. Catlin, A, C. Cowan, S. Heffler, et al, "National Health Spending in 2005." Health Affairs 26:1 (2006).

Health care costs in the United States rose an unprecedented 6.9% in 2005, more than double the rate of inflation. These costs are expected to rise at similar levels for the next decade. Protect your health and your wallet by investing in a health insurance plan that is right for you.

Source: National Coalition on Health Care. Catlin, A, C. Cowan, S. Heffler, et al, "National Health Spending in 2005." Health Affairs 26:1 (2006).

A 2003 study by The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation determined that over one third of uninsured adults reported having trouble paying their medical bills. Safeguard yourself and your family against future debt by finding a high quality health care plan.

Source: The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. Access to Care for the Uninsured: An Update. 29 September 2003.