Communication will solve the health care crisis.

As my wife is fond of saying to me, "communication is key".

One of the main reasons we find ourselves in the state we're in is because people do not understand insurance products, especially health insurance products. If we had automobile insurance built in a similar fashion to health insurance, no one could afford to own a car, much less drive one.

Imagine getting a starter or muffler installed for a $20 copay. Need a transmission or engine overhaul? As long as you were in your automotive repair network, you get 80/20 coinsurance until your deductible is met. Have existing accident damage? As long as you can get in an employer group where the carrier has to accept you, you get your car fixed. No matter that you weren't part of the original underwriting, Everyone helps pay your expenses. After all, isn't that what America is all about?

Now I know this sounds ridiculous, but no more ridiculous than for people to expect healthcare delivered this way for little or no cost.

The American public needs an education. I'm afraid it will come at the expense of the healthcare/insurance industry collapsing. No one knows what procedures cost, where they can get cost effective care, care provider success/mortality rates, what insurance carriers pay claims best, and how money works within the system.

HDHP/HSA's are a great first step because a policyholders self interest requires that they ask these questions. At this time they cannot get all the answers, but more and more light is being shed on the situation.

As agents that have our clients best interests at heart, we must continue to fight the good fight. If we continue to promote, communicate, and educate, we know that understanding will provide a sensible answer.