In my experience it does help to have an HMO. My mom uses Kaiser. So there's none of this in- vs out-of-network. One billing system, one insurance, etc. She has nothing but positive things to say about them. My dad had a similar experience towards the end of his life. He loved 'em. And nobody was left destitute as the result of his medical care.
Lets look at it this way: If that was the true price, what percentage of the US population do you think has the funds to actually pay $420k/year in for medication?
> what percentage of the US population do you think has the funds to actually pay $420k/year in for medication?
Zero, plus or minus. That's why the manufacturers basically give it away to people who can't afford it. Because they can, and it helps them somewhat mitigate the bad PR.
I'm sorry, but I just can't see how this is true. Do you only go to the doctor for a yearly checkup, or something?
I've had "good" coverage (paid for by big employers with cushy all inclusive packages), and I've also had the cheapest option on CA’s exchange, and the only difference was whether I had to pay the receptionist $25 or $150.
The "we won't cover this" and the "surprise, this costs 50x what you were told!" billing nightmare comes six months later. This has happened with every insurer I've ever had.