Hotel Workers and their Coverage in Scottsdale, AZ

While tourists enjoyed the fun and sun in Scottsdale, AZ, local hotel workers took a few minutes to talk about their health care coverage.

• A young adult worked at the desk. Until she turned 26, she was covered by her parent’s plan through the Affordable Care Act. After meeting the hotel’s eligibility requirements, she qualified for health benefits and enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan. “The payroll deduction is low, but the deductible is high. I hope I don’t get sick.”
• A woman in her 40s worked in the spa. Her hours were unreliable even during the busy season, so she didn’t meet the hotel’s eligibility requirements. She was uninsured for many years, but enrolled in an Obamacare plan for 2020. “I had a few health scares last year, so I had to get covered. I was also lucky to qualify for a subsidy so my premium is affordable.”
• A 65-year old woman worked in the salon. She relocated recently from the Northeast where she owned her own salon and worked now to supplement her retirement income. She had enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan for financial reasons. “It seemed the best way to control my out-of-pocket costs even if my doctor choices are limited.”

These hotel workers represented the local economy. Given the tourist industry, fewer people have employer coverage (44%) compared to the country as a whole (49%). More Arizonans are covered by Medicaid or uninsured (22% and 11%) than all Americans (20% and 9%). As a retirement destination, more people have Medicare in Arizona (16%) than across the U.S. (14%).

These women also illustrated the complexity of the American health insurance system. They would probably be better off if the U.S. had one system, like in Switzerland. In the meantime, they’re Mastering Health Insurance.

Finally, if you’re in the area (and are healthy enough to do so), hike Camelback Mountain.

Source: KFF (State Health Facts 2018)