Insurance companies need to offer real wellness incentives

Imagine if your health insurance company paid you money to eat vegetables and take a yoga class? Well, that’s exactly how it works in South Africa. And they’re not just doing it to be generous. The health insurance companies (such as Discovery Vitality) found that they save a ton of money to keep their clients healthy. We can do this here too. The way they do it is brilliant. They give you a “credit card” which you swipe at the gym or check-out counter at the grocery store. If your groceries contain 70% fresh, unprocessed food, you receive a significant discount. They give you incentives to get a monthly massage, take meditation classes, see your homeopath/acupuncturist/chiropractor/therapist. They promote stress-reduction and healthy living. Insurance companies in the US currently offer some token wellness incentives, but not enough to make a real difference. You can read more about their programs here: Medical Aid with Gym Benefits | Medical Aid Quotes

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There should be high deductible plans available with discounts for healthy behavior. These discounts need to be based on verifiable metrics, not pre existing conditions or genetic conditions. BMI, drug use, etc can be tested. Since ACA premiums for individuals have tripled while benefits have been reduced at the same time.

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