What is an ounce of prevention really worth?
By KELLEY BOUCHARD and MARY K. FITCH News staff Karin Martin was always impressed by the Marblehead YMCA’s exercise equipment, fitness classes and outdoor pool. But it was her HMO that actually clinched her membership deal. Harvard Pilgrim Health Care offers its members 20 percent off YMCA dues as part of its preventive care programs. “I don’t think I would join if had to pay full price,” says Martin, 65. “Some other clubs cost $500 or $600 a year, so I couldn’t afford to join. Now, for about $100 a year, I have no excuse not to be down there right now.” Although some people are critical about aspects of managed health care, there seems to be nearly unanimous praise for the prevention programs pushed by HMOs. “Years ago, we just responded to illnesses. Now we’re trying to prevent them. I think HMOs have done a good job allowing that to happen,” said Dr. Steven Barrett, a Manchester-by-the-Sea family doctor. The effort to keep you healthy isn’t entirely altruistic, though. HMOs and thei
