The Business of Healthcare

For many employees, financial wellness isn’t just about saving for the future—it’s about navigating the financial burdens of today. With rising healthcare costs, more workers are tapping into their 401(k)s just to cover medical expenses, jeopardizing their long-term financial security. But new analysis reveals a promising trend: employers offering Health Payment Accounts (HPAs) are seeing a 6% reduction in 401(k) borrowing, signaling a shift toward greater financial resilience. Read on to discover how smarter healthcare payment solutions can protect both employee well-being and retirement savings.

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. 

Saving for healthcare is an important part of your personal financial plan. Tax-advantaged accounts like an HSA or FSA are important tools to lower your taxable income while setting money aside for care. However, a lot of people aren’t sure when to use an HSA vs. an FSA or how their Paytient card works with these accounts to put you in a better position to afford current and future healthcare costs.