What is the advantage of a $0 deductible with higher coinsurance?

Question

I'm trying to think of a hypothetical situation in which it would be better to have a lower (or $0 deductible) with a higher percentage of coinsurance. As opposed to having a higher deductable with lower coinsurance...

Answer 1

With a zero deductible, you don't have to pay out of pocket at the time of an office visit/procedure/ER visit. This is preferable to some who'd rather have more taken out of the paycheck up front.

Others prefer less taken out of the paycheck (more take-home pay) and are willing to pay a co-pay of $20 or more.

These situations aren't hypothetical. They are factual.

Answer 2

First off, since you are pregnant you will not be able to get on the Aetna plan (or any other company) until after delivery. No insurance company will offer a policy to anyone already pregnant even if the policy doesn't have maternity benefits in most states. As far as the co-insurance - you need to check what is the out-of-pocket maximum and how much you'll be out should you have a catastrophic occurance. You may find that a policy with a deductible would be better for you. You'll still get the doctor visits without meeting the deductible. For example; if you have a policy with a $1000 deductible and $3000 co-insurance you'll be out a total of $4000, which is less than if the Aetna policy has a $7500 maximum.

Answer 3

well, in an emergency, you want treatment quickly without having to worry about how much you are going to have to pay before the insurance kicks in. It's a matter, I think of peace of mind.