I’m 41 single no kids non smoker healthy (but 40 lbs overweight) and signed up for self health insurance because I’m a freelance employee. So far I’ve experienced the following:
• complete denial of one pre-existing condition
• monthly premium increased by 50% because I disclosed that I have taken anxiety meds in the past (am not anymore)
• denial of coverage for the last 2 (minor) claims submitted
• disclaimer read to me by phone agent that a list of about 12 common health issues will not be covered within the first 6 months of my coverage
• ridiculous deductible that is basically a catastrophic-type amount I’d have to pay ($16,000!!!)
All of this for the low, low price of $155/month.
EFF THAT. I’m done.
I want to cancel this insurance and sign up for catastrophic-only coverage and just start paying out of pocket. So far, I’ve paid about $400 OOP anyway for stuff I knew would never be covered (for example I got a yearly gyno exam done one month early because I hadn’t been feeling well and wanted to rule out a gynecological issue). I basically had 2 choices: get a discount from the doctor for paying OOP, or submit it to insurance, get denied, and have to pay full price. (and oh by the way, gynecological issues are one of the 12 non-covered things on that disclaimer list anyway). I have had nothing but bullshit from this insurance company, and am sick of getting these surprise charges automatically charged to my credit card for all the bullshit they end up declining. And I’ve already paid them 4 months of stupid premiums for what feels like nothing- not even peace of mind.
Anybody out there have catastrophic coverage and pay OOP for medical charges? What has your experience been?