If you read "High Deductible Health Plan - Rejected" you know that my family got rejected for our new HDHP plan when we tried to switch insurance providers.  This is a brief update on where we stand presently.  If you have found yourself in a similar situation, might find this somewhat worthwhile reading.  The challenge with my current plan is that our provider seems to think that they need not provide us with any prescription coverage unless one of us is rolled into a hospital on a gurney, and then only as long as we remain strapped to it.

My insurance agent is working getting us some air coverage and specifically is researching what's called a critical illness plan.   He has not put anything in front of me to read about these policies, however, I understand that they kind of work like a term life insurance policy with some payout benefits in the event of a major medical situation.   The payouts would be as a lump sum, which, in theory would go a long way toward covering the presumed prescription gap in my HDHP. 

Remember, insurance really should be used for the big stuff.  Part of the reason the cost has gotten so out of hand is that most folks want to use their insurance for every wart and pimple they get.  As comparison, imagine what you would pay in auto insurance if you wanted to cover things like oil, wiper blades, tires and breaks.  It'd cost you a fortune.

My agent called last night and advised he is having some challenges finding a critical care option that will cover my kids as well as my wife and me.   But we'll deal with it and as I learn more, you can read about it here.

Here's something to think about.  When you start looking at high deductible health plans  if they don't you the coverage you need or want exactly, there may be ways to supplement them to get the coverage.  Once again I recommend finding a good insurance agent who knows HDHPs and let them do the heavy lifting for you.  And if they can't, fire 'em and find one who can.  That's one of the great things about consumer directed health.  It's about taking control.  Never forget, you're the boss!