Let's begin with the obvious-Americans are sicker than ever. Though a world-class pharmaceutical industry has made strides to control some previously deadly diseases, incidents of chronic disease such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders are steadily on the rise. Even the business of turning some lethal diseases into chronic ones adds up to the same thing: modern Americans are not only sicker-they now stay sicker for longer.
The burning issue of health care in the United States has convinced many that rising health care costs. While it is undeniable that the prevalence of the disease, the growing trend of underemployment and reduced coverage of the employer is a national crisis in health care, which is seldom discussed, has caused, is how the demographic shift that defines the consumer market, health care, and the fact that competition can drive and new markets, the prices of some insurance down.
Yet, despite this reality, something else has happened in America. We have moved away from a traditional work force. Instead of building life-long careers with major corporations that provide lifetime insurance and pensions, more Americans work for small or home-based businesses, and must fend for themselves.
Why is this a good thing for health insurance prices? Because this growing group of independent Americans has created a new market. Now, instead of marketing directly to corporations, insurance companies have to reach cost-conscious individuals and compete for their business. What this means for people wishing to opt out of traditional ways of securing health care is that they are likely to be met with selection and competitive prices.
Best yet, savvy consumers need to do no more than get online to find great prices. As companies fight for dominance among this rapidly growing customer base, early buyers will win by demanding the best pricing.