I retired early in 2014 at 54, emboldened by how ACA would address my biggest post-employment risk as a US resident/ citizen -- access to affordable and good quality health insurance. After my COBRA coverage period ended, I used ACA health insurance for coverage, starting in 2015 and through to this year. A quick visit to healthcare.gov yesterday showed me that my monthly cost for a Bronze level plan in Virginia will go up from $495 to $1,525 ($6000 deductible, roughly comparable plans) for 2018 coverage. Gold coverage is $2880 (!%?&$! unbelievable). I receive no subsidy.
My goal is to identify and compare alternatives so that I can understand the risk exposure, coverage and cost of the options, lining up a chosen approach by 12/15/17. All options are on the table, including any combination of Medical Cost Sharing, temp health insurance policies, critical illness coverage, hospitalization plan coverage. Please weigh in with thoughts and ideas. I'll also share what I learn.