Paying out for Health Insurance vs Saving money yourself?

Question

I am curious as to which is better option?

Currently paying out $190 per month (australian) on Health Insurance for hubby and I. It helps with peace of mind, but we have had it for 4 years now and never needed to make any kind of claim back. That's a lot to pay out and not get anything in return.

Would I be better to put the money aside into a savings account every month and then invest that money into a mimimum risk share portfolio?

(Thinking being that if I was just to save it, it would take far too long to accumulate to a reasonable amount in case of emergency).

Answer 1

If you are healthy, you may want to think about just saving your money.  On the other hand, if you're not healthy,  you should buy the insurance.

Good luck.

Answer 2

your health can change without notice. I suddenly had to have my gallbladder removed. The insurance co paid $23,000 to the hospital and surgeon. It will be a while before I can complain about my insurance premiums.

Same thing happened to my wife a few years ago.

Answer 3

One accident or serious illness will wipe out your savings. You can't save enough fast enough, in the event you have a serious medical emergency. Plus, if you get sick, and money from your job stops coming in--then what? How are you going to pay your medical bills, in addition to your monthly expenses to live?

Just because you haven't used your health insurance doesn't mean you will never need it. Think of it like auto insurance- be glad to pay the bill without sustaining a head-on collision.

Answer 4

An MRI can cost $2500

An ER vist $1000

I just had sinus surgrey that cost $16,000

If you were injured in a car accident ......well - the sky's the limit on that one. If you get hurt really bad - easily 6 figures.

Ooops - your pregnant! - Wanna guess how much that would cost with out insurance?

Do you think you could save that much money?

I'd say the good news is you have been healthy and have not been involved in any accidents. However, all it takes is  a few seconds to cause an injury that could  wipe you out financially.   If you can afford the 190 per month- keep the health insurance.

Answer 5

both options r good,but u see the thing is that we never know if something is going to happen,having health Insurance will help u any time u get sick,and invest or save  money well, of course is very good as well,

But if u haven't use it then save it,

good luck with ur decision