On Redeye Radio last night, they talked about the changes that were being implemented at their company, vis-a-vis their insurer.
Deductibles for a family of four are going to be about $4k-$6k a year before they hit the co-pays. Although, the company is setting up pre-tax health savings accounts for the employees.
That means for a family of four with a household income - up to 10% of their pre-tax income will be going to healthcare ...
....an minimum of 10% of their pre-tax income will be going towards healthcare insurance premiums.
Factor in the amount the employer pays, and it's actually a bit over 20% of pre-tax income.
No actual healthcare will be “covered” by the insurance company, untill the additional 2K-6K cash deductable amount is met and/or exceeded each and every calender year.
No medical provider will quote any price for their services, unless you first tell them which insurance company “underwrites your healthcare needs”.
If you intend to pay cash in advance-charges will be doubled (contrary to basic economics)
Unless you have two or more insurance policies, you have no ability to “shop for the best value” for that 2K-6K amount.
Payments made to Walk in Clinics with posted fees for routine care, are generally not considered amounts that apply towards your annual deductables.
There-I fixed it for you.