My Two Cents on Health Insurance

Like most people out there, I have read and seen all the articles, speeches, and TV news reports about the health insurance crisis in the United States. I watched Michael Moore’s Sicko as objectively as I could, comparing the pros and cons of insurance programs in other countries with the system in my own homeland. I can honestly say that I really don’t know what the right answer is for Americans like me who are in between jobs, freelancing, and working for companies that don’t provide health insurance to their employees. If you are lucky enough to have a 100% stable position with comprehensive benefits that cover hospital costs, doctors’ visits, ambulance rides, x-rays, and all the other aspects of health care coverage that we often forget about.

I just acquired an individual health care plan after exhaustive research, discussions with people I trust, and compromise. Why compromise? I realized that I had to make a choice and spend more per month than I planned to, but I don’t regret my choice, and thankfully, I can afford it. I know there are many that can’t, so I count myself fortunate. Now that I am insured, I feel relieved; at least I have some financial protection for any health-related issues that may come up in the future. I even purchased a dental plan, because it is something I have taken for granted in the past.

We all have different ideas about which direction the U.S. should go when it comes to health insurance reform. Should we have a government option? Should we keep things the way they are? Can the prices of private health insurance plans be regulated so those who aren’t fortunate enough to be insured through an employer don’t have to think twice before getting medical treatment? I don’t know what the answers are, but what I do believe is that health insurance companies shouldn’t play God with our lives.

How are you affected by health care and insurance?