I currently have open enrollment and need a bit of help deciding on health insurance plan.
We're currently on an HDHP, and have no issue with it.
Except..
There is a possibility we will be trying to have a baby this year (we're not sure, but we haven't ruled it out), and I don't know what kind of costs pregnancy and delivery would entail, that may make something other than an HDHP make more sense (i.e., maybe an HMO?). So some questions for those who may have some experience and/or knowledge in this:
To complicate matters, my health insurance period goes June - May, whereas DH has the usual Jan - Dec.
He's currently on my plan as it's cheaper that way. Assuming dropping him from my plan is a qualifying event, he can get on his own plan. We're also not sure if I can opt out of my workplace plan and get on his. This would mean changing doctors, however, as his has a separate network (Kaiser).
1. What health services do I need to take into account relating to pregnancy and delivery?
2. To those who have experience, what was your out of pocket cost & insurance type?
3. Has anyone had experience switching health plans mid-year due to voluntarily opting out of previous health insurance on different time period?
I've asked mine over the phone before, and was told DH leaving my plan would be qualifying event, but I'm still not 100% sure. He will ask his HR, if he/we would be able to enroll in his if he/we opt out of my plan.
For reference, the info for the available plans are as follows:
Pre and post-natal care is no charge for all plans
Price listed is for employee alone / employee + spouse.
We currently max HSA, and in 25% bracket.
HDHP (23/34 mo): 2000/4000 deductible, 4000/6850 out of pocket max, 20% co insurance after deductible for pretty much everything else.
PPO (43/90 mo): 1000/2000 deductible, 4000/8000 out of pocket max, 25 copay dr visits, 30% co insurance other things
HMO (54/113 mo): 0 deductible, 4500/9000 out of pocket max, copays: 30 dr visit, 50 specialist visit, 100 tests, 500/day (max 5) delivery
DH's plan (60/ ? mo): I recall it being a plan with good coverrage, though I don't currently have the details, but will see if we can pull one up even though it's not his open enrollment season. I do know it's 10 copays for dr visits.
If I know what kind of costs are associated with pregnancy and delivery, we can probably do the math. However, I have no idea -- hence the questions.
We can afford the deductible / out of pocket, regardless of what plan we end up with; however, we still want to optimize our expenses.
I appreciate any input anyone can give. I can provide more info on my plans if necessary -- I'm not sure what all would be necessary in considering pregnancy/delivery costs.