of Faithful Patients have done so, more than our other three Health segments. Faithful Patients say they like the HMO concept which they believe would cover all of their health-care needs. In 2024 56% of Advantage plans have this structure.
Both in terms of their diseases and their attitudes toward health, Faithful Patients pose a threat to profits. More of those in this segment have serious chronic diseases for which they have seen a doctor. For example, while 13% of those in any version of Medicare have diabetes, 20% of the Faithful Patients are diabetic. In terms of high blood pressure, 48% of Medicare enrollees have this condition, compared to 57% of Faithful Patients. Among Medicare enrollees 11% have seen a doctor for an upper respiratory disease (COPD), but 16% of Faithful Patients have done so.
Providing additional health-related information to this segment will not change their behaviors. Faithful Patients already know what they must do to lead healthier lives, but they admit they don’t follow through by exercising or eating a better diet.
Many Faithful Patients depend on their doctor, preferably a specialist, to figure out what is wrong with them and dispense the prescription drugs that will make them well. It is only by taking these prescribed drugs as instructed that Faithful Patients believe their health will improve.