The Decision-Making Science of Effective Healthcare

When it comes to our own health, it’s no secret that we all can be a bit, well… apathetic.

In fact, we sometimes make decisions that favor our time, pocketbooks or taste buds without thinking about health consequences much at all. So, if we can’t be trusted to do right by our bodies 24/7, perhaps it would be helpful to have a little push now and then?

That’s the reasoning why many companies, including health plans like the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan, also known as the Federal Employee Program (FEP), are encouraging good behavior with a carrot rather than a stick. As a reward for healthiness, in lieu of a sanction for unhealthiness, FEP is motivating Plan members to take better care of themselves.

When eligible members complete an initial health assessment, they receive dollars on a health debit card they can use toward medical expenses. Then, with digital coaching and support tools, FEP members can set personal goals and earn more rewards as they achieve those goals.

Incentive programs like FEP’s also incorporate technology connected by the internet of things (IoT) to help participants measure progress on their goals, an especially helpful component when those goals are traditionally difficult to meet. Through FEP, members can leverage tools from everyday routines to live healthier lives. Take weight loss as an example: If getting in shape with your personal activity tracker motivated you before, think about how dedicated you might be when there’s money up for grabs.

But this thoughtful approach to healthcare could reach far beyond everyday wellness.

Millions of Americans battle conditions that need more intense or specialized personal healthcare than what’s necessary to lose weight or kick a tobacco habit. Unfortunately, the gravity of these conditions doesn’t always mean that personal care is easier to maintain. Diabetes, for example, affects patients in life-altering ways that demand nearly constant attention.

FEP’s take on incentives hits a high note with its rewards for these kinds of especially serious conditions. Diabetic patients have the opportunity to earn rewards for consistent reporting of blood sugar levels and participation in annual check-ups related to their diabetes. In the same secure digital dashboard that allows members to keep track of their sugar levels, they can find tools and resources for other health conditions like asthma and high blood pressure.

Let’s face it: We can’t always rely on sheer force of will when it comes to healthy living. Even when dealing with serious health issues, we let things slip. And sometimes being our healthiest, best selves can require some friendly nudging.

Fortunately, we don’t have to tackle health goals alone. With health plans like Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP paying attention to what motivates people, they’re using what they’ve learned to everyone’s advantage.

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