I have United Health Care’s high deductible plan, which I chose vs the lower deductible when I started my job 3 months ago for the HSA and because I have no medical conditions and rarely see a doctor. I’ve developed neurological issues the last month that have required a doctor visit, MRI, and now a follow up and likely more testing with a specialist. The doctor visit was $177 after a discount and MRI was $621 after discount. Does insurance even with that plan really not pay anything more? My old plan through my old job was high deductible with HSA, but bills were still only $70. At the rate I’m going, my old and new HSAs will be drained well before I hit my deductible, so I won’t have money to pay the bills. I guess the short answer is the doctor offices won’t get paid until I have the money, but is there anything more I can do? I can’t imagine how expensive seeing a neurologist will be plus whatever tests they want even if in Network.

Hello. In December 2024 I enrolled in health insurance with United Health care through my employer during open enrollment. Benefits were to begin 1/1/2025 and my premium was to be $54.44. I noticed on my recent paycheck that my premium had more than doubled. I never received notice of this premium increase and only realized it had happened because my paycheck was smaller. I called them and they said the increase was because they "recalculated my information and saw an adjustment was needed." I demanded they cancel my plan, as I had not agreed to this premium. They said I wasn't allowed to cancel until the next open enrollment period with my employer in December 2025. They said they would open an appeal on my behalf and created a ticket, but I’m doubtful it’s going to make a difference, they will likely just reiterate what they already said and not allow me any recourse. Are they allowed to do this? Do I have any options in this situation or do I just have to accept that they can charge me whatever they like throughout the course of the year? I was not aware rates could change mid-policy like this. I am 48 and healthy. I have a nearly $10,000 deductible, and don’t go to the doctor for anything outside of my yearly checkup because I cannot afford to pay for anything out of pocket. I’ve also stopped taking prescribed medication because I don’t want to pay for that out of pocket either, and I can get by without it. It’s crazy to me they’re allowed to do this. Apologies in advance if I have posted in the wrong place.