For 2) it is much simpler to say something like "employer pays half of the monthly rate up to $X", while you freely pick which insurance. That is how it works i

For 2) it is much simpler to say something like "employer pays half of the monthly rate up to $X", while you freely pick which insurance. That is how it works in Germany by the way. Concerning the competition I would caution that from my experience some American insurances lack standards. For example insane copay, cancer not covered or other crazy exceptions. So to have actual competition you should also require by law that all essentials have to be covered with a limited copay and not discriminate. The insurances can still compete on non-essentials (e.g. fitness, cheaper checkups). Otherwise you run into the issue that poor people are forced to buy scam insurance.