Insurers push smaller cost, narrow choice

WASHINGTON, July 18 (UPI) -- The biggest U.S. insurers are pushing plans with reduced premiums but a narrow selection of doctors and hospitals, industry officials say.

The New York Times reported the new plans are being tested in venues such as San Diego, New York and Chicago, and should appeal to small employers who provide employee insurance but are concerned about increasing costs.

Large employers also show some interest, the report said. The large employers could reduce premiums by as much as 15 percent with the limited plans.

Insurers also expect the limited plans to appeal to individuals and small businesses who will buy coverage in the insurance exchanges, or marketplaces, required under the new healthcare law and set to take effect in 2014, the Times said.

The trade-off -- consumers paying higher prices to choose or keep their doctors -- could come as as surprise to those who remember President Barack Obama's assurances that individuals could keep a variety of healthcare choices, the report said.

"What we're seeing is a definite uptick in interest because, quite frankly, affordability is the most pressing agenda item," said Dr. Sam Ho, the chief medical officer for Minnesota-based UnitedHealth's healthcare plans.

Tags: health insurance

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