NEW YORK – Americans' confidence in their ability to access and pay for healthcare rose in April after dipping in February and March, according to Thomson Reuters.

According to officials for the New York-based information management company, the Consumer Healthcare Sentiment Index found that confidence increased two points from 97 in March to 99 in April, a statistically significant change.

"We're seeing a bit of volatility so far in 2010 – optimism tempered by uncertainty regarding the economy and the future of the healthcare system," said Gary Pickens, the company's chief research officer.

"The index gauges the current use of medical services and predicts future healthcare utilization, making it an important indicator and guide for healthcare organizations," he said.

Respondents also expressed growing optimism in their ability to access and pay for healthcare services in the next three months – resulting in the prospective consumer healthcare outlook climbing from 96 to 100. The retrospective picture was mixed: People were increasingly likely to postpone or delay care even as health insurance coverage improved.

The index is based on the Thomson Reuters PULSE Healthcare Survey, which collects information about healthcare behaviors, attitudes and use from more than 100,000 U.S. households annually.