A simple question about Health Care Reform, can I choose to NOT use my employer's insurance?

[Cleobulus]

I ask because its crap, too expensive(but not expensive enough to allow it to be subsidized by the government, according to the subsidy calculator) and I wouldn't mind going on the exchange if I can find a plan on there I can afford(assuming Senate bill threshold is used, if it compromises to the House bill then I just sign up to Medicaid).

[ProSense]

1. Yes, you can opt out

and secure a voucher from your employer.

[DrToast]

2. Do you work for a small company?

Your employer will probably end up buying the plan on the exchange if so.

If it's a large employer, I believe there is going to be a minimum level of benefits they will have to offer you or pay the fine.

[Cleobulus]

3. Mine is a medium sized company, so who knows which way they will go...

Also they offer the minimum level of benefits that more or less matches what is required in the HCR bills I've read, which, frankly, is crappy, but whatever. Even if premiums dropped to something I could afford I couldn't use the insurance outside of basic doctor visits anyways, hence the reason why I want to see what is offered on the exchange.

[stray cat]

4. Of course - but then won't pay you extra if you do

[proud2BlibKansan]

5. Usually no

I used to help negotiate our employer's contract with our carriers. One thing they always insisted on was no opt out. They wanted to be guaranteed a certain number of subscribers.