Sept. 4, 2019
Your Millennial patients have some expectations that may differ, or be more pronounced, than those of your older patients, Joe Harpaz writes in Forbes.
He identifies six key expectations that may separate your younger-generation patients from Generation X, Baby Boomer, and older, patients.
They Take Care Into Their Own Hands
Millennials see themselves as responsible for their own care and are less likely to rely on a health system they are dissatisfied with. A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 45 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds and 28 percent of 30-to-49-year-olds have no primary-care provider (PCP).
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They Do Their Research
Thirty-eight percent said they trust their peers more than their physician. Additionally, over half (55 percent) said the information they find online is “as reliable” as their doctor.
They Want Upfront Cost Estimates
A recent survey found Millennials are twice as likely as seniors and Boomers to request cost estimates before undergoing treatment, often checking prices at multiple locations before making a decision. However, upon receiving the bill, over a third surveyed noted it was higher than the estimate and only 8 percent reported a bill lower than the estimate.
They Want Apps
Seventy-one percent of Millennials want to schedule appointments through an app, access medical records online or receive automated appointment reminders, and 60 percent also want an option for virtual doctor’s visits and would choose a telehealth visit over an in-person one if given the choice. Additionally, over two-thirds would prefer post-care follow-ups via e-mail or text message instead of the phone — or even via chatbots like Alexa.
“Healthy” Means More Than “Not Sick”
In an Aetna survey, Millennials were twice as likely as Boomers and Gen-Xers to cite eating healthy and exercising as part of the definition of overall health. They were also far less likely to say maintaining a healthy weight and “not being sick” are a key part of what it means to be healthy.
Shopping for Healthcare Insurance
When given the choice, Millennials prefer to shop online for health insurance, with 55 percent focusing on cost when selecting a health-insurance plan. They are often less brand loyal and would switch plans if it resulted in money saved.
