However, the plan did not provide “skimpy” benefits. With no pre-existing conditions when I purchased the plan, I chose to pay for a comprehensive plan that provided coverage for serious illnesses, including emergency room and ambulance care, mental-health benefits, MRIs with authorization and other good benefits.
Yet, on Oct. 1, I, too, received a letter explaining that my plan was being canceled because it did not conform to the ACA reforms. None of the new plans offered included any “reductions in premiums.” In fact, they included another yearly increase of about 18%. To date, I haven't found any similar alternatives, even on the exchange for my state.
All this confirms the conclusions about healthcare reform I have had for years. It is not about the delivery of healthcare or the services (although improvements always can be made regarding patient safety, tort law, etc.). It is about the convoluted and uber-expensive, third-party reimbursement of healthcare that needs reforming.
Deborah Kohn
Dak Systems ConsultingSan Mateo, Calif.