I have received quite a few calls this year from single men complaining about the large increases in premiums they have received from their health insurance companies. Some have said the cost has jumped from the mid $100’s to over $200!
This is due to new federal and state requirements that insurance companies must include in their coverage. Here in Colorado the main reason is that starting January 1, 2011, all new policies have to cover maternity. All in-place plans (policies purchased previous to 2011) have to cover it after their anniversary date. AND, men and women have to be charged the same amount for a policy.
Previous to this, maternity was always an expensive “rider,” added to an individual plan. Additionally women were always charged a little more than men because of their more frequent use of wellness and the fact that insurance plans did cover “complications” to pregnancy, just not “normal” births.
The net result guys, is that you have received a double whammy. You are now paying the same premium prices as are your girlfriends and for maternity as well.
Take heart however, when you turn 50, she’ll be helping cover the cost of your Prostate exam.
If you’d like to know more about this development, check out this article
or give me a call at 303-541-9533 to see about some lower cost alternatives.
