I pay $303 a month. It doesn't include dental, does include vision exams but not glasses, is specific about using emergicare instead of hospital emergency rooms unless your injuries or illnesses are very serious, has co-pays for most procedures, prescriptions, ambulances and office visits, requires a recommendation by my primary physician to see a specialist in non-emergency situations, but limits my total possible out-of-pocket annual expenses to $2,000.

You can tailor health insurance to fit you needs and budget if you take the time to shop around and find out what different insurers have to offer. I've been with this company (Kaiser Permanente) for six years, and my premiums have actually gone down the last three years in a row, after increasing 35% the year I turned 50. My policy is a group policy, and I am the entire group. There are companies that will sent up group policies for individuals.

I have a feeling that some people get used to coverage provided by their employers that is top shelf. When they go looking for the same type of coverage, they are hit between the eyes with sticker shock. It doesn't have to cost as much if you fit the coverage to your own needs.