Healthcare Equity

When it comes to healthcare, affordability isn’t just a buzzword—it determines access, outcomes, and equity. The economic principles governing healthcare demand are straightforward: as costs decrease or become manageable, more people can access and afford the care they need. When they are high, rising, or uncertain, too often, healthcare doesn’t happen. Unfortunately, Out-of-pocket costs often present insurmountable barriers for patients.

When we think about innovation in healthcare, it’s easy to get caught in the traditional "iron triangle": access, cost, and quality. These three elements have long been considered fixed constraints—improve one, and you’re likely to diminish another. But what if there’s a way to disrupt these familiar dynamics? What if there’s a fourth dimension that, by pushing the triangle over time, can make care more accessible and affordable without sacrificing quality? Our CEO and founder, Brian Whorley, has written about this possibility, which is worth revisiting as benefit leaders emerge from open enrollment and turn their eyes toward 2026.

The start of a new year is the perfect chance to hit refresh—especially when it comes to your healthcare benefits. If you have employer-sponsored insurance, you probably know the basics like premiums, deductibles, and copays. But here’s the thing: your benefits package likely holds more value than you realize. By uncovering hidden perks and learning how to make the most of your coverage, you can set yourself up for a healthier, wealthier, and more stress-free year. Ready to make your benefits work harder for you? Here’s your quick guide to maximizing them like a pro!

When you hear the term "cash pay" in healthcare, your first thought might be, "Why would I ever pay cash for medical care when I have insurance?" First, let’s clarify: “cash pay” doesn’t actually mean handing over physical cash—it means paying your healthcare provider directly without going through your health insurance. But, here's the thing—when it comes to healthcare expenses, choosing between insurance and cash pay can be a smart strategy that saves you money. 

Healthcare isn’t just about getting and staying physically well—it’s about being financially prepared, too. But, uncertainty around healthcare costs makes it easy to feel overwhelmed. Luckily, with a few smart strategies, you can take control of your finances, make the most of your benefits, and build a solid foundation for a healthier, more secure future.‍

Most healthcare expenses are smaller than you think, yet they still create stress and barriers to care. The solution? Smarter payment design. Learn how Paytient’s Health Payment Account is reshaping affordability and giving people control over their healthcare costs.