Explain It to Me Why your health insurance is so expensive
12 snips
Nov 9, 2025 
This discussion features Lisa Jarvis, a Bloomberg healthcare reporter, who breaks down plan types like HMO and PPO, while offering tips for open enrollment. Julie Rovner, Chief Washington Correspondent at KFF Health News, dives into why premiums are spiking due to factors like rising healthcare utilization and the lack of price regulations. Dylan Scott from Vox explores alternative insurance options like short-term plans and the limitations of healthcare cost-sharing ministries. Together, they equip listeners with practical strategies to navigate these complex topics.
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Match Plan To Your Health Use
- Evaluate how you use health care before picking a plan by listing regular visits, prescriptions, and preferred providers.
- Match those needs to plan types like HMO or PPO and read the fine print carefully.
Look Beyond The Premium
- Compare premium, deductible, and copay numbers, not just the visible paycheck deduction.
- Consider a high-deductible plan only if you rarely use care and can fund an HSA for future costs.
Use HSA Or FSA Strategically
- Use an HSA with a high-deductible plan to stash pre-tax dollars that roll over and can be invested.
- Use an FSA if offered, but plan spending carefully because most funds must be used within the year.