Out of network surgery – to double cover or not?

Complex situation, but I need a surgery related to a prior breast cancer. The surgery is required to be covered under Federal Breast Cancer Reconstruction laws. I currently have a PPO plan with a $1500 deductible and $8000 max out of pocket. The surgery will likely be in the 40k range so I know I will hit the max oop. Typically, assuming that the insurance pays enough, the surgeon’s office has agreed not to balance bill – which, in addition to the fact that they are the best at what they do and I can’t get an appointment for the same surgery in network until 2024, I’m thinking this is my best bet.

I have the opportunity to enroll in a second insurance plan under my husband. $5000 out of network deductible but will be approx $500 in premiums per month.

I’m trying to determine if it’s worth it to pick up the second insurance. The numbers don’t work out on a basic level, but I’m not sure I understand how the coordination of the two insurances would impact the deductible and max out of pocket (if at all).

What should I do?

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