Low Cost Health Insurance Plan Draws Criticism
"A lot of us have other expenses besides just medical problems," said FSU Student Blaine Hartman.
The bare bones plan will cost about $150 a month. Some mandated coverage like prenatal care and some physical therapy won't be covered to lower costs.
State agencies have been working with insurance companies to hash out the plan. Insurers have until the middle of August to submit a coverage plan. So far, no plans have been turned in. A Washington research group claims the premium is too expensive and not many people will sign on. Governor Charlie Crist disagrees.
"Groups and people can have their opinion on it," said Crist. "That's fine. I respect that, but common sense tells me if it's $150 a month instead of $700 a month a lot more of our fellow Floridians can afford it and that's a good thing."
The bare bones policy would offer preventative coverage, but little to no help with emergency room visits and hospital stays.
"It sounds like its just a little band-aid on a big problem," said Andra Hurst. "Something needs to be done about the health care issue, but I'm not sure that's exactly what we need."
Whether or not the plan is a success will be left up to the state's 3.8 million uninsured who will either buy the coverage or go without.
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