System and method of economic incentives to foster behavioral changes that improve health

摘要

A web based electronic system with the capacity to record vital behavioral information while providing a platform for participating insurance companies to offer incentives for patients to engage in specific preventive care and/or health promotion practices. The system includes either an electronic funds transfer card that can be used as a debit or charge card to purchase goods and services, or a magnetic strip card as an ID to record the transaction. At checkout, the system operates invisibly to the consumer and the cashier. Approval of the transaction operates similarly to a conventional debit card or credit card. All incentives are managed by the data clearinghouse which receives patient data and provider data. The clearinghouse communicates with the insurance company and forwards a statement which displays the historical behavior.