You'll think twice about getting an X-ray for a sprained ankle when you're paying for it. If you buy health care like you buy groceries, paying for an item at a time, you'll become a more astute customer.

Because we've had the opportunity to develop a plan and approach from scratch Avalon asked insurance professionals, employers and potential members what they want in their health plan. From their point of view, we've created a consumer-focused model for the future.

Avalon will provide first class customer service, as every Avalon member, employer or producer will be connected to a live voice at all times, and not be subjected to an automatic telephonic prompt system. By keeping people connected, Avalon answers questions quickly and rectifies problems the first time, creating a more efficient and consumer friendly experience.

You've got to raise money when you think you can get it, not when you need it. If you wait till you need it, your bargaining power is less and it's no fun.

If you're a healthy 25-year-old male, why wouldn't you get a lower premium plan?

He's a real mobile, very poised with the puck and defends well, ... For a 20-year-old, he's got a man's body and he skates so well and moves laterally. It's just a matter of getting used to the pace of the game. We hope over time that he develops a bit more of an offensive edge to his game, but right now we don't put a lot of pressure on him to do that. He's going to play, it's just a question of how good he'll be. Is he going to be an All-Star or not?