Health Insurance Is Sexy, According to Most Recent Survey of Consumers Who Buy Their Own Coverage

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA--(Marketwired - February 14, 2015) - Uninsured Americans have less than 72 hours to boost their sex appeal by applying for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. As Valentine's Day looms, a new consumer survey from eHealth.com shows the sex appeal of health insurance is diminishing over time, but nearly half of men and women (49%) are still more attracted to those who are insured.

eHealth, Inc. (NASDAQ: EHTH) is the nation's first and largest private online health insurance exchange where consumers can compare health insurance products from leading insurers, and purchase and enroll in coverage online or over the phone.

Hope for the Dateless and Uninsured
The 2015 open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act officially ends this Sunday, February 15, the day after Valentine's Day.

Individuals who find themselves dateless and uninsured this Valentine's Day weekend will be encouraged by the results of this eHealth study which finds that roughly half of men (52%) and women (46%) would be more attracted to a potential mate if they knew that he or she had health coverage.

The eHealth survey of over 890 eHealth customers who purchased a new health insurance plan in January of 2015 was conducted between January 28 and February 9, 2015.

Is the Sex Appeal of Health Insurance Declining?
Perhaps surprisingly, the sex appeal of health insurance has declined steadily since 2011. 

• 93% in 2011: In 2011, 90% of college students and recent graduates said they would be more attracted to a potential mate if he or she had health insurance, ¹ according to a study sponsored by eHealth.
• 65% in 2014: By 2014, only 65% of eHealth customers responding to an email survey said they would find a potential mate more attractive if they knew he or she was insured².
• 49% in 2015: In January of 2015, a mere 49% of eHealth customers -- again responding to an email survey -- said they would find a potential mate more attractive if they knew he or she was insured³.

What Makes Health Insurance Sexy?