Reply #5: I think of the public option as one that individuals would choose, not employers. And ...

[Honeycombe8]

I view it as an option for generally LESS coverage, but with lower premiums. In other words, I view it as a fall-back position for someone whose employer doesn't provide insurance and the person can't afford, or doesn't want to pay, the higher rates for private ins. (which also comes with better coverage).

Sort of like Medicare. Medicare doesn't provide full coverage like a private ins. policy would. That's why there's big business in selling Medicare supplemental policies.

I really think that the "supplemental policy" business may become big business with teh public option, too. Maybe that's what has ins. cos. so nervous....their full coverage policies that they sell NOW may gradually morph to become SUPPLEMENTAL policies.