Consumers hoping to cut back on their medical costs may make tax-deferred contributions to health savings accounts.

These HSAs may be paired with a high-deductible health insurance plan, which increases consumers' out-of-pocket costs in exchange for lower premiums. The number of Americans combing such healthcare options reached 10 million in January, according to the America's Health Insurance Plans, representing a 25 percent increase over last year's figures.

Half the consumers covered with HSA plans did so through large-group coverage, a market that grew by 33 percent from January 2009 through January 2010. Small-group coverage attracted 30 percent of HSA customers, and increased by 22 percent. HSA plans were most popular in California, Ohio, Florida and Texas.

"HSA plans continue to be an important coverage option for families and small businesses across the country," Karen Ignagni, president and CEO of AHIP, said.

Health-savings accounts were first introduced in 2004 under the George W. Bush administration. Deductibles on these plans must be at least $1,200 for an individual or $2,400 for families. Recent healthcare reform will soon prevent consumers from using HSAs toward purchasing over-the-counter medications.