That is the underlying problem though. There is no "shopping around". Either your plan allows it, or does not. If you need a procedure, your choices are effectively limited to who is on your coverage list.

FWIW, I live in an area where there is ONE healthcare option (Racketeering/monopoly). I (as an independent consultant) pay $1640/mo for a $5,000 family deductible. So basically, I pay over $19,000/year for the PRIVILEGE of paying another $5,000 and that's assuming I only go to the doctors "they allow" me to go to. (it was $800/mo for a $1500 family deductible prior to ACA). Obama can EABOD.

The only people who like the ACA are the people who don't have to pay for it.

Edit: Also I was in an MVA in July, the Emergency Dept. didn't accept my insurance at all - so who gets the bill? I do. The MVA wasn't my fault, but that bill is still my responsibility.