A study published in Value Health examined patient preferences for health insurance plans covering newer type 2 diabetes treatments, particularly in the context of equity. Researchers conducted a discrete choice experiment with 701 patients, exploring two conditions: one focused on personal health outcomes and the other on equal health outcomes for both the individual and those with poorer health.

The analysis revealed two distinct classes of patient preferences in each condition. In the first condition, a “Risk-Averse” class (68.6%) showed a willingness to pay $26.06 for a 1-percentage-point improvement in treatment efficacy, while requiring substantial compensation for increased risk of side effects. Conversely, a “Cost-Sensitive” class (31.4%) valued efficacy at $6.89 but exhibited greater price sensitivity.

In the second condition, an “Equity-Concerned” class (71.6%) valued efficacy at $20.84 and displayed lower risk aversion. The “Cost-Sensitive” class (28.4%) in this scenario valued efficacy at $7.28 and was largely indifferent to risk. The study concluded that while patients prioritize treatment efficacy and demonstrate risk aversion, their risk tolerance increases when equity considerations are factored in.