About half of small businesses chose not to offer (expensive) group health insurance to their employees.

Eric for example, has just five employees, who he sent to The Marketplace. He bought a Christian ministry plan for his family. I’m not a fan of that kind of ‘coverage’ explaining why in Tip #320.

Previously everyone in Eric’s family enjoyed great health.  That changed when his wife started experiencing excruciating hip joint pain; both need to be replaced. Now!  But when they attempted to pre-certify the surgery, it was determined her condition was pre-existing and wouldn’t be covered.

According to the Healthcare Bluebook, the “fair” price for total hip replacement is $36,309. See for yourself here.

 ‘Obamacare’ rules guarantee Eric the opportunity buy a small group health plan on the first of any month; there will be no medical underwriting and no pre-existing conditions limitations.

The insurer will allow two different plan designs; e.g., a high deductible plan his employees might find affordable (only two must enroll to have a viable group) alongside a $500 deductible option Eric and his family will take, at least until his wife’s care is complete.

This will be far more costly than his previous arrangement, but Eric won’t complain.

Should we?