Refusing to buy insurance because you don't like the mandate

[Bill McBlueState]

The mandate that's coming into effect is a lot like the one in Massachusetts -- correct me if I'm wrong.

Does anyone have an estimate of the number of people in Massachusetts who are refusing to buy insurance for political reasons? Does that actually happen, or are anti-mandate people just making empty threats?

[liberal N proud]

1. It is also similar to that used in other countries

[earthside]

3. In what other countries ...

... are people mandated to buy health insurance from multi-billion-dollar-profit corporations?

[On the Road]

9. Switzerland and the Netherlands Have Been Used as Examples

but I don't know how comparable the specifics are.

[earthside]

10. NON-Profits in those countries.

That's a big difference.

[WinkyDink]

4. To what do your pronouns "It" and "that" refer? Insurance, mandate, threat, ?

[Statistical]

2. My guess is empty threat. The penalties are pretty steep.

Minimum
$695 for individual
$2085 for family

or 2.5% of income.

Max is roughly triple that.
That is a seriously chunk of cash to oppose on political grounds.

I think some (a very small %) people will attempt to defraud the IRS by lying on tax returns about having "credible coverage" when they don't.

[WinkyDink]

5. Not nearly as costly as the actual insurance. Those totals you've posted would be MONTHLY for

insurance.

[Statistical]

6. Well not exactly.

I am sure there will be health plans with maximum allowed deductible, copays, ect that are not much more than the tax/fine.

For example right now in my State a man 40 years old can get an HDHP for $43 per month.
https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/

Plan is very limited (HDHP)
$3500 annual deductible
20% Co-insurance
$5000 annual out of pocket limit

Now not that I would suggest this is "good coverage" but compared to paying a tax/fine = 100% loss I would see most people taking this option and at least gain some level of coverage.

Hence money flows to insurance companies which was the intent of this "reform".

[ixion]

7. I'd pay the penalty before being forced to purchase a crappy product

and if you think this is just going to go away, think again.

[GodlessBiker]

8. Nose, meet face.