How, exactly, is a dedicated skier supposed to live the dream, upping the ante on burly lines all day, working for some appallingly paltry sum supplying overpriced services to tourists all night, and still manage to eat, much less pay for health insurance?

It's an upsetting conundrum, no doubt about it.  In an attempt at personal responsibilty, you may purchase health insurance for an exorbitant monthly fee and deductible.  If you have to use it though, you may be left watching in dismay as the company weasels their way out of a multitude of charges you assumed would be covered.  They may have a point.  After all, is anesthesia really necessary? or is that guy's bill just a frivolous luxury?  Hmm.

I was recently told about a non-profit insurance company called Adventure Advocates, which supplies accident insurance for a very affordable monthly charge.  I looked it up at www.adventureadvocates.com, but still filled with suspicion I called them up and spoke with one of the founders, Ryan Hill.  After a grilling session, I was completely satisfied and sold on the product.  I signed up right then.

Designed to work on its' own or as a supplement to cover your deductible, co-insurance, and all the things your charming insurance company just doesn't feel like paying (they will find plenty), I cant even count the amount of people I know, myself included, for whom this coverage would have saved a lot of grief over the last few years.

Designed for high risk candidates and competitive athletes, there are some exclusions, but also options you won't find often (heli-evac coverage, for example).  This is accident only, so don't expect help with your sniffles.  

If you can't afford the ridiculous BCBS style rates; if you are not carrying anything right now, with the highest pay-out of $25,000 for medical expenses priced at $30 per month with Adventure Advocates, the question is can you afford not to get a policy?  It is exPENsive! when you have to get a surgeon to glue you back together.  Check it out, call them up, protect yourself.

Don't let this crap ruin your skiing happiness!