Most don't understand healthcare coverage

NEW YORK, May 16 (UPI) -- Gender may play a role in how people understand paying for healthcare but workers of both sexes generally do not understand coverage, a U.S. survey indicates.

A survey by the Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America, found 58 percent of women are more likely than 47 percent of men to find paying for healthcare premiums and out-of-pocket costs a challenge.

However, 51 percent of women compared to 42 percent of men have done some retirement healthcare planning.

The survey also says:

-- Two-thirds of the employees surveyed said healthcare plans in general and healthcare coverage and benefits are difficult to understand.

-- 65 percent of respondents without a college education said their healthcare expenses were a substantial or great challenge compared to 40 percent of those with a college degree.

-- More than 20 percent of respondents did not fill a prescription because of the cost involved.

-- Less than 50 percent of baby boomers are currently planning or believe they are fully prepared financially for their healthcare in retirement.

The telephone survey of 473 U.S. adults employed either full- or part-time, has a margin of error of plus/minus 6.4 percentage points.