Lexi Thomas, a recent college graduate, has decided to accept a job offer from a nonprofit organization. She’ll earn $44,000 a year but will receive no employee health benefits. Lexi estimates that her monthly living expenses will be about $2,000 a month, including rent, food, transportation, and clothing. She has no health problems and expects to remain in good health in the near future. Using the Internet or other resources, gather information about three health insurance policies that Lexi could purchase on her own. Include at least one HMO. Use Worksheet 9.1 to compare the policies’ features. Should Lexi buy health insurance? Why or why not? Assuming that she does decide to purchase health insurance, which of the three policies would you recommend and why
worksheet 9.1
Service Policy #1 Policy #2 Policy #3
Hospital care
Surgery (inpatient and outpatient)
Office visits to your doctor
Maternity/well-baby care
Pediatric care
Immunizations
Mammograms
Medical tests, X-rays
Mental health care
Dental care, braces, and cleaning
Vision care, eyeglasses, and exams
Prescription drugs
Home health care
Nursing home care
Services you need that are excluded
Choice of doctors
Location of doctors and hospitals
Ease of getting an appointment
Minimal paperwork
Waiting period for coverage