Term: Medical Savings Account (MSA)

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2006-04-17

Definition:

MSAs are a financing mechanism for the healthcare system whereby individuals combine a high-deductible catastrophic insurance policy with a savings account intended to pay "small" medical bills as they arise. Unspent funds can roll over for use in future years.

References 

• Deber RB, Forget E, Roos LL. Medical savings accounts in a universal system: Wishful thinking meets evidence. Health Policy 2004;70(1):49-66. [Abstract] (View)