Military Insurance

I have several friends who are in the military or belong to military families. In the recent budget released by the president, military insurance takes a hit.

The Military Officers Association of America reports that might have to end up paying $2000/year for premiums, along with an increase in deductible to about $320. Tricare is still some of the best insurance around, covering many conditions private insurance balks at.

Let's put this in perspective. By changing the structure of their insurance for a government savings of over $13 billion, the veterans and their families have to pay more. Meanwhile, private insurance rates are going up 25% for some folks and more for others. Just for myself last year, I paid over $1600 for premium costs... and that's only covering part of my premium because my employer covers most of it. Many employers are using this premium cost shift as a way to save money. Should the federal government really be expected not to follow suit?

I think members of the military and their families experience a lot to protect the country and that we should provide for their care, but at what expense? At what cost to the general populace? I can't afford the kind of care that tricare recipients receive freely. Sure, they will have more out of pocket costs now, but they'll still have access to some of the best insurance in the country. Many of those in federal service pay a lot more for their care.