I have an idea for an add-on plan option to the Exchanges; it would work well for people like me and I don't think, as long as the details were worked out, would hurt anything about the new program.
Also, easy responses to both Right and 'Left' complainers about Obamacare policy $$$.
First, the idea for a new plan option:
Personally, I currently have a high-deductible plan. I have enough liquid assets that I can cover my deductible in the case of a catastrophic injury or illness, have a (high) copay for a specialist visit, 2 free preventative care visits per year, and cheap generic drugs. Works fine for me, who has to worry about just me.
My rate will almost surely be more expensive under Obamacare plans than what I currently pay, because none of the options can be as stripped as mine currently is right now.
Now, while I know I'll be getting more from my more expensive insurance, if I could put enough funds into a tax-exempt account that could be verified annually as sufficient to cover a high deductible (and thus be allowed to take on a cheaper monthly plan), I'd sign right up for that, and I think many others in my same situation would do so as well.
So, instead of $205ish, I pay $80-$100/mo, and have say $8k in a protected account that i have to maintain in order to stay qualified for that plan. I have to submit an annual statement with my taxes that shows I maintained an average balance of at least that plan's deductible in the account.
How's that sound?
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Also, easy response to the oft-unresearched, oft-context-less complaints from both the Rightwingers and our supposed allies around here and other Lefty realms about Obamacare premiums:
Whines from the Right: 'OK. Would you be willing to sign up for a plan that requires you to pay, in full, for any and all medical services prior to receiving them? You'll probably need to have a bank account # on file in case you're unconscious. Or, they just let you die.'
Complaints from the 'Left': 'If we were receiving single-payor, universal coverage and your taxes increased by the same amount you're complaining about (having to pay more/having to pay the penalty on), would you still be complaining?'
Neither of the above meant to be snide at all, but offer alternate context to the complaints.