Thread by @MamurphyMaureen

[CLIMB SOAPBOX]

One of the many sources of suckage in U.S health insurance, in this case as an "employment benefit".

1.

In almost decade I spent in one job, health insurance benefits became increasingly sucky, year by year. More expensive, more hoops to jump through, more DISINCENTIVES to access, particularly for least-compensated employees.

2.

The advent of the "high deductible" plan and its increasingly ubiquitous status, is the suckiest if the sucky, and shamefully anti-worker.

3.

Hypothetical. At Posh Firm, a single Mom with two kids works catering department. On hook at start of coverage year? Up to $8,000 ( $4,000 self, $4,000 kid). NO subsidy.

4.

HOW is this disincentive? After January of health crisis for child, Mom feels hard lump in her left breast. Due to hit in January, postpones her in care. Then the fridge breaks down. More postponement.

5.

Covid hits in March, out on unpaid leave. Crowded aoartment. Bus driver aunt infected. Sweeps thru house. Lump harder and more sore but too much to deal with.

In April, catering department laid off ( lawyers working remite in spacious, roomy homes). COBRA coverage prohibitively extensive. Family just above income limit gir Medicaid due to current tear income estimate.

You may imagine where this hypothetical goes. 😞

Yes, I opened my big fat mouth back a few years ago on burden of high-deductible plans on lowest-paid of staff and got some non-answer I can't even remember. But did end up being " underground" source if info on plan mechanic!

To Conclude: Our system is a patchwork abomination that makes insurance company execs and capitol owners obscenely rich. It also increases likelihood person cooking your fancy meal at high-end bistro has drug-resistant TB.

#HealthcareIsAHumanRight

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"mechanics"