I've spent the better part of the past 5 days in the hospital with my bride-to-be, due to her having an emergency appendectomy. We talk openly about finances and the merging of our financial ideas, but I realize there will be many interesting -- if not entertaining -- situations that will arise during our engagement. This hospital episode may be the first of those situations that I'll share within Common Cents.

Here are a few facts I learned from the National Coalition on Health Care

• In 2006, there will be an estimated 53.7 million uninsured Americans
• Health Care costs are currently growing at 5 times faster than inflation
• Americans average $2,182 out-of-pocket expenses for Health Care
• Today’s average premium for a family insurance policy -- $9,086 a year – already represents 21% of the national median household income of $42,409

During our extended getaway to the 4th floor hospital room, we discovered that we're going to have to decide whether she should join my health plan during the next open enrollment period, or if she should stay on her own plan (local University). The health plan for my company is definitely better, but in comparing the options, my biggest concern will be factoring in that her employment (fundraising) is almost 100% guaranteed, whereas my employment (software sales) isn't as secure.

This is honestly something I had given any thought to before now -- I can't wait to see what surprise is on the way for this week.

Let me know if you have any ideas on how to compare health plans.

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