PaintedDaisy

I think any of the "biggies" would be okay. Usually when someone gripes about their insurance company, it's because of limitations of their plan, not the insurance company themselves (though not always).

So I'd say the biggest factor would be the plan type and the associated cost. I'd personaly go with the one that gave me the biggest bang for my buck, provided they aren't some little gonna-go-out-of-business-tomorrow-type shop. The cost will be dependent on the plan you choose, but typically is much, much higher than what you will pay for group insurance (because your company also pays a large chunk for you).

When I was looking at it last year, it was going to cost $600/month for just me and DD. If I increased the deductable to $1000 for DD and made my coverage catastrophic only, it was reduced some. That can be an option for you, but that means you'll typically be responsible for paying the full (but negotiated rate) for doctor's visits. Fortunately, they were willing to cover me despite having PCOS -- some ladies just aren't so lucky, even with a rider, so that's something you need to find out about.

I completely understand the predicament you're in. I want to be a SAHM mom too, but the insurance thing is what's getting us since I carry it for the family. We can't afford to both lose my income AND pay astronomical rates for insurance. . .one or the other but not both. Sigh. . .

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