Health Insurance Questions

People have asked us many questions about our future lifestyle as fulltime RVers. By far, the most frequently asked question is regarding health insurance.

This issue strikes tremendous fear into the hearts of many Americans. I have excellent insurance coverage through my employer. Obviously, once I leave I will be giving up that coverage. So, what to do? COBRA through my current insurance would be well over $1,000 a month. This is far too expensive for our budget. I have researched the health insurance issue at length. Websites of other fulltimers have been very helpful. Howard Payne at RV-Dreams.com has written an excellent article about health insurance issues. I encourage you to take a look at his website if you are interested in fulltime RVing. I have learned so much from his site.

We have found the best option for us will be a high deductible policy. For about $165 a month we will be able to have a policy that will cover both of us, but we will have a $10,000 deductible. After that, all expenses are paid. This means doctor and dentist visits and prescriptions will be entirely our responsibility. However, if something major happens requiring hospitalization, that $10,000 will be gone in no time. After that, we are covered. This policy gives us peace of mind in case of a major illness or accident.

We have both had full checkups in recent months. Lucky for us, we are both in very good health. We will place the $10,000 deductible in a savings account and leave it there in case it becomes necessary to use it. We understand we are taking a risk with this type of policy. However, considering we are both in good health; we feel it is worth it. We're not willing to wait until we reach Medicare age to begin the dream. I believe many people allow fear to rule their lives. It is a calculated risk; we know that but are willing to take that risk.

I know there are people out there who are not in the best of health and need full coverage insurance. I wish I had an answer for you. Until our country makes health care a priority for all, there are those who won't be able to follow their dream. We are very willing to pay for our coverage. I just wish there were more options available for all.

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Franklin Roosevelt