[usaar333]

> many skip getting things checked until it seems absolutely necessary

True, but isn't that the entire point of hdhps, to minimize unnecessary visits?

They still provide no additional cost annual physicals, so you'll get the required yearly screening.

Additionally, many offices have no cost phone or email advice.

I'm personally quite happy with my family HDHP - and it is nice to have additional retirement savings.

But you have to have a savings mindset; many people don't which is what leads to medical spending increases when a refund comes in.

[JonGarfield]

Just because something is minor does not mean it isn't urgent or best tended to sooner rather than later. Strangely enough, those of us with universal health care don't make it a hobby to go to the doctor's office because it is "free" at point of use. We only go when necessary, we just don't have to weigh the possible trade off of food, shelter or savings in the equation that turns minor, easily treated conditions into major, life threatening ones.

[rootusrootus]

> They still provide no additional cost annual physicals, so you'll get the required yearly screening.

Well, until you find out that you can only get the physical for free, and physicals are really not worth much. If you discuss anything at all with your doctor that is outside a routine physical, ask any questions, get any advice, and he codes it when he submits the bill -- it won't be free at all, it'll cost you a couple hundred bucks. So there is incentive not to bother.

[usaar333]

If that happens, honestly it is time to get a different doctor. :) Good primary care doctors should be incentivized not to do that as it is a great way to churn patients.

[rootusrootus]

That is a good point. My current doctor hasn't yet done this to me. Past doctors for sure, but my current GP is pretty laid back.