What are consumer-directed health plans?
Consumer-directed plans often include a high-deductible health plan connected to a health fund or account. The account can be used to offset some or all of the cost of your deductible by paying for covered medical expenses like doctors visits, allergy medication or eyeglasses. Depending on the type of fund or account, leftover money may be saved and used to cover medical expenses down the road. How can parents help? Stress the importance of health insurance — and the implications and risks of going without. Talk about the costs associated with health insurance and how a small monthly payment will protect against the charges for an unexpected hospital visit or illness. Lastly, make sure your new grad has a good understanding of the basics. Explain from your own experience how insurance works and the range of options available.
