Another ACA "Horror Story"

[matt819]

Did everyone see the idiotic story in the NYT this morning?

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/22/us/looking-at-costs-and-risks-many-skip-health-insurance.html?hp

The fact that these clowns are happy to go public with their stupidity, with photos no less, is breathtaking.

Okay, now for two ACA horror stories.

My mid-twenties daughter signed up for a policy in January. In April she moved to another state. Over the weekend, she called the number on the http://www.healthcare.gov website, applied for a new policy and is now covered there. Different insurer, but a comparable policy. On the phone. In just a few minutes. Okay, she's smart and resourceful, but I suspect anyone could do it. It's not complicated. (Yeah, I know, single payer would be better, we are slaves to the insurance companies. I know that. But it's what we have.)

And now for my horror story. I called my ACA insurer and asked what my cost would be for a colonoscopy. Ready for this? Sitting down?

Zero.

Well, zero, maybe. Here's where it gets a bit messy, but it's insurance, not ACA. If they find anything or should they do another procedure in addition during the colonoscopy, then total cost, and my share, depends on how the doctor codes the procedure(s). This really does suck. But, remember, this is a routine problem with insurance companies. The ACA angle is irrelevant. Where the ACA involvement is relevant is that it requires this procedure, and an annual physical exam, to be at no charge.

I hope I didn't frighten any young children or lurking wingnuts. We in the reality-based community understand these things.

Edited for grammar.

[Lex]

1. "then total cost, and my share, depends on how the doctor codes the procedure(s)"

As it has been with health insurance since forever.

[matt819]

3. Exactly

This element of my horror story has nothing to do with the ACA.

What's a bit different today is that with all of these stories about health insurance is that those of us who are in the reality-based community know to ask these questions and try to ensure that they are not screwed by health care providers, the insurance companies, etc.

But, as you say, it has always been thus.

[jberryhill]

2. "Ready for this? Sitting down?"

Ummm.... if you are sitting down, you are not "ready for this" relative to a colonoscopy.

Mine's tomorrow. Enjoy the Gatorade and laxatives!

[matt819]

4. Funny.

I'm going in on Friday. I've been told that under this sort of "conscious sedation," I'm quite entertaining. I usually remember nothing, which is probably just as well. During one procedure a few years ago, I tried the set the nurse up with my son.

[jberryhill]

6. Normally they won't tell you what you said

Which I find comforting.

I raise my cup of broth to you!