Will the consumer be able to get the same deals as the HMO's and PPO's?
In other words, if I'm on a PPO and I go into the hospital, my bill may be $9,000, but the hospital accepts a $2,000 payment from the PPO because it is their contracted price.
Will I, as a consumer, be charged the $9,000 and be responsible for that entire amount? If so, it seems like the hospitals will be "taking it out" on those that choose to use the MSA's.
I do know one individual who chooses not to carry health insurance, and when he gets a bill from a hospital, he walks in, carrying cash, and negotiates a payment. He usually gets at least a 50% reduction on his bill, but I'm sure not many people are aware that the hospitals are willing to work this way, and I don't think the doctors will be willing to negotiate on their fees.
They do negotiate. I've had an MSA for years and this is what I do. When I go to a dr. that I have not visited before, I call to make an appoiintment. I tell them I will pay cash at the time of service and that I will pay at their highest reimbursement rate. They always agree, because they get what an ins co would pay them without the ins co paperwork.
Frugal FReepers, you must visit these sites: SimpleCare: www.Simplecare.com for discounts on MD visits, and www.SaveOnBenefits.cjb.net for discounts on dentist, chiropractor, and eye dr. visits (and also prescriptions). These 2 plans plus an MSA with high deductible medical insurance (required with an MSA) and you are set!