Quote:
Originally Posted by aceventura3
Another way to look at the fundamental approaches to the problem.
When people have ownership of something, are in control and aware of the costs they will more actively participate in controlling those costs. So, if I shop and select my health insurance, pay for my health insurance premiums, pay deductibles and co-payments, see the bills, understand the coverage, I will be part of the overall solution in driving costs down.
On the other hand, if someone else "owns" my health care coverage (employer plans or government plans) they will manage my health care to their priorities. If I am unaware of heath care options and the real costs I have no incentive to keep the costs down. The third party may or may not do what is in my best interest.
McCain's plans has the intent of getting Americans more involved in their health care. Obama's plan is more of the same. McCain's plan will help reduce overall costs, Obama's plan is more of the same. If you really want "change" or some new ideas, perhaps the McCain plan is worth consideration.
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I have an HRA plan through work. It differs from an HSA that I had before my employer created this plan in two ways.
1. The money is mine only while I work for the company.
2. No interest is earned on the money. (maybe a little, but it is insignificant)
Now, HSAs aren't perfect either. The few banks that have them charge monthly maintenance fees of $3 if you aren't putting money into it, they don't earn very much interest (1/4th of a savings account), and while I am healthy and it does promote staying healthy, it also promotes not wanting to spend your money if you are sick.
Oh yeah, and good luck trying to figure out what things will cost you before you go to the doctor. The first year of allergy shots I had to pay for out of pocket (using a flexible savings account because I knew that I needed them and had to wait 3 months before I could start putting money into it). So, I had to pay close to the $2500 deducible the first year because I needed allergy shots. Luckily something unplanned didn't happen, because I don't want to be laying on the pavement trying to decide which hospital I want to go to because it will cost less.
And honestly, I'm tired of dealing with changing insurance and having to deal with it. I don't want to deal with bills, statement updates, whatever. If my doctor doesn't get paid, then I will look into it when they tell me.
And i'm sure that a universal system could be setup and work, but it might not cover things like allergy shots and non-emergency medicine. And I'm ok with that.