MIKE8

Health Insurance Benefits

Most Americans who have health insurance access it through their employers. But employment is no longer a guarantee of health insurance coverage. Due to rising health insurance premiums, many small employers cannot afford to offer health benefits. Companies that do offer health insurance often require employees to contribute a larger share toward their coverage. As a result, an increasing number of Americans have opted not to take advantage of job-based health insurance because they cannot afford it.

Examine the health insurance benefit plans you and your family members have. You could ask your friends for similar details, but bear in mind that all health information is confidential. Examine the changes over time in these plans. Determine if there is a pattern or trend in the changes.

• • Identify trends with the level of benefits provided.

• Discuss changes with regard to cost sharing or increased employee premium amounts.

Write your response to each question in 1 to 2 paragraphs.