Looking to pick up health insurance: BCBS vs. Aetna? (deductible, price)

[February]

Hello, From the BWI area in Montgomery county. Looking to pick up health insurance for about 4 months for an individual. Went through ehealthinsurance to find BCBS vs. Aeta. Wanting to find out more on how to determine the fine line differences rather than just the listed price per month, co-pay visits, and the deductible. Individual wanting to get a physical the next month and some prescriptions. The Aetna one is cheaper than the BCBS; but that is because the first five office visits are only $30 co-pay. Also wondering if Aetna or BCBS is accepted around the area.

Came down to BCBS vs. Aetna; wondering how to choose which one works best? Thanks in advance.

[Zimar]

I actually have the same question about Aetna-

I can tell you that I had to have emergency surgery under a BCBS plan and it was a nightmare. They charged me for part of the cost of the surgery even though it was a life-threatening emergency. Why? Because the surgery was not done in the emergency room itself, but in an operating room. And I couldn't just explain this to them- I had to spend months wrangling on the phone and writing angry letters. I want to switch plans now, but I don't know if Aetna is any better.

Do you happen to be covered as an employee for the state of Maryland? They're doing open enrollment now- and we're going to be paying more for less coverage! Whoopie!

[John13]

Probably not good advice but I'd skip it, especially considering that if you are healthy chances are nothing will happen for the four months.

I've been without health insurance for 3+ years and it does frighten me. But the very high cost and lack of coverage makes it not worth it. If something major happens to me I'm screwed. I'd probably be better off dead. That's the crappy heathcare system we have in America.

I do go to the doctor when necessary and just pay out of pocket. I get a discount for paying upfront and out of pocket.

[SCarlisle]

You are referring to an Aetna "Value" plan that limits the number of office visits. The PPO plan does not limit visits.