Another point. When HMOs first came out, they were very popular, and very affordable. It represented a quantum leap forward in health care coverage, and controlling costs. They offered several plans, with different levels of coverage, and at differetn rates. What destroyed the HMO were the state legislatures that “mandated” that these plans must include all these additional features, like second opinions, maternity, chiropractic, additional days in hospital...etc. etc...there’s a huge list...and the companies had to raise premiums through the roof..
Precisely;)
Health Maintenance Organizations are much like car warranties; which require maintenance and upkeep. These ‘plans’ should have been separate contracts.
1. Catastrophic medical insurance policies for unexpected catastrophic illness & injuries with high deductibles and no limits.
2. Maintenance policies for check ups - IVF, gastric bypass, pregnancy etc., with premiums based on selected and included coverage, i.e. Cafeteria.