Yes the system is broken - but that's how HDHP (high deductible health plan) works. Presumably your employer is contributing to your HSA, and your bill gets ch

Yes the system is broken - but that's how HDHP (high deductible health plan) works. Presumably your employer is contributing to your HSA, and your bill gets cheaper once you hit your "high deductible", so when you sum up everything it's slightly better than other plans. Basically, HDHP is a yearly package deal. You choose it and accept that every year your initial hospital bill will look insane. If your employer isn't contributing to your HSA I don't think there's any reason to choose HDHP. Or, if you (like me) don't like the feeling of doing the mental equivalent of income tax filing every time you go to hospital, HDHP isn't for you. Disclaimer: I'm horrible with money and this comment is not financial or health advice.