2011 Consumer Survey Data Supports Acceptance of HSAs as Mainstream Healthcare Option

WATERBURY, Conn., May 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- HSA Bank released today the results from its 2011 Consumer Benchmark Survey that indicate Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are accepted as a mainstream healthcare option. The data illustrates that people with an HSA-compatible health plan have similar characteristics – including age, health and income – as those with traditional health plans such as HMOs and PPOs:

• 59.8% were age 45 or older
• 95.8% considered themselves of average or better health
• 42.1% earned an annual household income ranging between $50,000 and $100,000

"One of the primary – and positive – 'side effects' of HSAs and HSA-compatible health plans is an increased awareness and participation by the individual," said Kirk Hoewisch, president of HSA Bank. "People see the cost of a doctor or medical procedure, and this knowledge encourages them to shop for healthcare and ask questions, just as they would for other major expenditures."

To download the complete Consumer Benchmark Report, go to www.hsabank.com/2011_benchmark.

HSA Bank® is a division of Webster Bank, N.A., member FDIC, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Webster Financial Corporation (NYSE: WBS).

About HSA Bank:

HSA Bank is one of the nation's most experienced HSA administrators and one of the few administrators with an exclusive focus on HSAs. HSA Bank works with individuals and companies of all sizes and complexities. HSA Bank actively listens to the needs of our clients and customers to develop solutions and create flexible HSA programs that include online access for employers and individuals. HSA Bank offers reliable and responsive support to its business partners and accountholders from friendly, knowledgeable service staff.  Discover how easy it can be to have or manage an HSA at www.hsabank.com!

About Webster Bank:

Webster Financial Corporation is the holding company for Webster Bank, National Association. With $18.0 billion in assets, Webster provides business and consumer banking, mortgage, financial planning, trust and investment services through 176 banking offices, 492 ATMs, telephone banking and the Internet. Webster Bank owns the asset-based lending firm Webster Business Credit Corporation; the equipment finance firm Webster Capital Finance; and provides health savings account trustee and administrative services through HSA Bank, a division of Webster Bank. Member FDIC and equal housing lender. For more information about Webster, including past press releases and the latest annual report, visit the Webster website at www.websterbank.com.

SOURCE HSA Bank