Kevin, a Cab Driver, Talks Health Care in Pennsylvania

While Pennsylvania celebrates the Eagles’ Super Bowl win, Kevin drives a cab on a cold winter day. He’s about 40 years old and well informed about health care and insurance coverage in the U.S. Here’s a summary of our conversation.

“I heard that Warren Buffett, Jeff Bezos and someone else (Jamie Dimon) want to fix health care.” Kevin not only knew about the three businessmen’s announcement, he thought it was a good idea. He doesn’t believe that Washington can get it done, and he likes that Mr. Buffett has a long-term view.

“I think everyone should have some basic form of health care coverage.” Kevin talked about everyone having access to doctor visits, emergency rooms, inpatient hospitalization and prescription drugs. In other words, basic medical care.

“I don’t have health insurance now because it’s too expensive.” Kevin had shopped for Obamacare coverage on the federal marketplace but, given his income level, he didn’t qualify for subsidies. He has a chronic medical condition, and he pays cash to see his doctor and get his medicine.

“I realize that my health is important.” Kevin admits that he’s not always lived a healthy lifestyle, but he’s learned to make better choices. He quit smoking. He eats better. He doesn’t drink soda. He gets to the gym. Many employers would pay him for his efforts with some sort of a financial reward.

“I might need to get a job with a company that offers health insurance.” Before driving a cab, Kevin had employer-sponsored insurance, and he understands now that it was good deal. He’s also getting married soon, and it’s important that his wife have coverage.

Kevin wants Messrs. Buffett, Bezos and Dimon to be successful. They might be surprised that Kevin, a cab driver in Pennsylvania, is interested in their efforts. In the meantime, he wants to do the right thing and be covered. In other words, he’ll be Mastering Health Insurance.