@f0 health is completely unpredictable. Having an accident, falling down some stairs, can happen to anyone. It's not only about lifestyle, that part is impossible to control. A cancer diagnosis or any other unexpected change cannot be planned for. Insurance math does not contain a formula for that unless the risk is acceptable.
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@ag HSA is actually one of the best options out there. You can pay the money in premiums up front and NOT have any health issues - That money is down the drain whether you have an ailment or not.
With HSA you can pay a lower premium, max out the HSA, and grow your investment for the future. Essentially the premium cost + max out of pocket is very similar... $15k max out of pocket including premiums in a bad year isn't bad. This is before you consider the tax savings if you use the remainder to pay for Medicare premiums after retirement, or use it as additional 401k money. And that copay you're $40 copay you're paying out of taxed cash so it's really $50.
Many folks just don't know how to do insurance math. Or... They're unhealthy and have done damage due to their own poor choices. Obesity in America, and the cr-p folks put in their bodies is out of control. And don't even get me started on alcohol + tobacco, or vaping. D-mb.
I've had 2 health issues in the last 20 years. That's 2 years where I had to pay much of anything. I've easily thrown away $100k in those 20 years on insurance premiums for low deductibles because that's all that was offered. Of course everyone isn't the same, but so many have put themselves in that situation.
Coming from TSYS and agree with OP. Only options are HSA and lost coverage for needed medications overnight. This is not good insurance compared to other companies out there.
@a9 in the best sense, health insurance protects insureds from financial harm due to medical needs. Having coverage with a co pay that is manageable would make it easier on employees. Need to see your doctor? You can plan on paying $40.00. Imagine having a chronic issue knowing that every January you are going to have to swallow thousands of dollars in deductible first? Stephanie, Bob and Ian don't spend ten seconds thinking about it.
The big lie the insurance companies and therefore the employers say that we all want options. We don't want options. What we want is the great coverage at the cheapest price.
@a5 It is not the industry standard that’s for sure. They can and should do better for their employees. It’s shameful!
The standard answer in Town Hall meetings has always been this is the industry standard, we are aligned with other companies. It is clear, that those determining the benefits can afford the deductible or premiums. Frontline staff has to find out at the end of an ER visit that they owe $3000.00. Depending on whether family coverage is selected, It reduces the salary of a frontline staff member by a significant amount. Just another way to cheap out and make employees pay the cost.