Cost of Health Insurance in the U.S.: A Comprehensive Guide
The monthly cost of health insurance in the U.S. can vary widely based on several factors including the type of plan, coverage level, location, age, and whether the insurance is obtained through an employer or the individual market. According to recent data, here are some general estimates:
Employer-Sponsored Plans
The average monthly premium for employer-sponsored health insurance ranges from about $1200 for family coverage to around $500 for individual coverage. Usually, employees pay a portion of this cost, which can range from $100 to $400 per month for individual coverage.
Marketplace Plans
For those purchasing insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, premiums can also vary. The average monthly premium for a benchmark silver plan is around $450 for individuals and $1200 for families. Many people qualify for subsidies that can significantly lower these costs.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides coverage with little to no monthly premium for eligible low-income individuals.
Other Factors
Age, health status, and specific plan choices like deductibles and copays can also influence premiums. It is essential to compare plans and consider the total cost of care, including deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses, when evaluating health insurance options.
From my research, I pay less per year than the average American does per month. However, it is important to note that this does not include co-pays or their deductible.
On average, individuals would pay about three times as much as it would cost them to have universal healthcare. While this information is freely available in the public domain, it is worth exploring further. The potential for significant savings and improved healthcare outcomes is real.
According to the data, Americans could pay two-thirds less than they do currently and receive much better health services. The only reason this hasn't happened is due to the corrupt system in the U.S., where bribery and corruption are legal under the guise of 'lobbying.' Pharmaceutical and for-profit healthcare insurance companies bribe politicians to maintain the status quo and profit from people's misfortune and illness.
This system is designed to work effectively, as it results in around 530,000 American families filing for bankruptcy annually due to medical bills. Until enough Americans decide they no longer want to pay high premiums for a broken system, this issue will persist.