Reply #11: Not just affordability

[ramapo]

It is access to decent coverage. Rules in NJ are relatively enlightened. Coverage cannot be denied based on pre-existing conditions (although it can be delayed if you haven't been covered) and there are mandated plans for those not covered through their employer. However these are very expensive and coverage isn't great.

But if your employer offers a plan and you can't afford it or it is crap or whatever, then you have no choice. Take it or too bad. If you change jobs, maybe you'll get coverage that is better or worse. Who knows. Start your own business? Now you're really screwed. Can you afford $20K or more a year for crappy insurance.

Doctors hate my insurance. The company doesn't pay. Doctors drop the plan so we can't use their services without going out-of-network and taking whatever the insurance company feels like paying.

We need single payer. We need something affordable that is available to everyone, employed, self-employed or unemployed. I have little hope that I'll see it in my lifetime.