A mere 7% of Americans feel they are adequately prepared financially to deal with the future costs of health care, according to a new survey by Deloitte.

At the same time, Americans are expressing a desire to become better consumers of health care services and want to gain more control over their purchases and gain more access to their medical records and to retail clinics, Deloitte found.

The 2008 Survey of Health Care Consumers is a representative poll of more than 3,000 Americans between the ages of 18 and 75 that was conducted by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions.

Ninety-three percent of respondents said they are not well prepared for future health care costs. Clearly, consumers will be monitoring the presidential elections this year, as 79% stated they believe health care will be an important issue in the 2008 election.

Other findings from the survey include:

• 60% want physicians to provide online access to medical records, test results and appointment setting.
• 3 in 4 consumers want expanded use of in-home monitoring devices and online tools.
• 34% said they would use a retail clinic; 16% said they already have.
• 29% support a tax increase to help cover the uninsured.
• 84% prefer generic drugs to brand-name versions.
• 52% said they understand their insurance coverage, but only 8% said they completely understand the policies.

While health care needs vary widely by gender, age and cultural background, the overall needs are basic, Deloitte concluded – better service, personalization and value.