Real World Experience with Clearwater Benefits / Clearwater Health?

It’s once again my most hated time of the year… open enrollment for healthcare in the United States. April and tax day used to hold this treasured slot in my heart but at least with them it’s all retrospective – I’ve gotta pay what I’ve gotta pay. But with American healthcare, nay nay. I’m supposed to crystal ball both my income for the year (I don’t work a 9-5 salaried job) as well as how sick I think I’ll get. Get either of these wrong and it can be very, very costly.

With my small vent out of the way my question is this – has anyone purchased and used a plan from Clearwater Benefits (https://www.clearwaterhealth.com/) for at least a year? I’ve been dealing with the healthcare marketplace since I left the corporate world 10+ years ago and every single year I pay more and get less. Looking at Clearwater their premiums are about ½ of what the big players charge but I’d like to hear about any real-world experiences. The two things that cause me the most concern are the fact that their plans aren’t offered through the healthcare marketplace and their disclaimer –

‘ClearShare is not insurance or an insurance policy nor is it offered through an insurance company. Neither is ClearShare a discount healthcare program nor a discount health card program. Whether anyone chooses to assist you with your medical bills will be totally voluntary, as neither ClearShare nor any other member is liable for or may be compelled to make the payment of your medical bill. As such, ClearShare should never be considered as insurance. Whether you receive any amounts for medical expenses and whether or not ClearShare continues to operate, you are always personally responsible for the payment of your own medical bills. ClearShare is not subject to the regulatory requirements or consumer protections of your particular State’s Insurance Code or Statutes. ‘

Thoughts, input, or stories (good or bad!) from anyone with direct consumer experience? Any recommendations for healthcare outside of the marketplace or Clearwater?

submitted by /u/divjnky
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