Higher deductibles delay Nashville-area healthcare

The Tennessean, January 21, 2009

Rising deductibles on health insurance policies is adding to the financial problems forcing some Nashville-area residents to delay needed medical care. Due to the job losses and higher unemployment in Tennessee, the higher costs run the risk of creating sicker patients who put off care too long, critics say. The trend could also mean less revenue for cash-strapped hospitals, doctors, and other providers as the national economy slows down.