And this year feels a little different. Between rising premiums and ongoing debate in Washington over healthcare subsidies — one of the major sticking points behind the government shutdown — a lot of people are finding themselves rethinking what “good coverage” actually means. So in today’s episode, we’re unpacking what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make sure your plan fits both your health and your wallet going into 2026.
Topics Discussed
- Why premiums are rising for 2026 and how costs differ by age, state, and coverage level.
- How major life changes and evolving medical needs should inform your plan selection.
- The shift toward high-deductible health plans and when they make sense for physicians.
- Key differences between HMOs and PPOs.
- Why out-of-pocket maximums matter more than premiums or deductibles when evaluating real risk.
- HSA vs. FSA: contribution rules, tax advantages, rollover limitations, and who benefits most.
- Why marketplace plans offer stronger protection than health share ministries, despite lower premiums in the latter.
Resources Mentioned:
Tags:
ER docs, physician finance, open enrollment, health insurance, HDHP, PPO vs HMO, marketplace plans, premium tax credits, HSA, FSA, healthcare costs, medical planning, financial planning, catastrophic coverage, deductible strategy, 2026 benefits
