Ex, I think your "90%" is inaccurate. Your argument has merit for sure, but consider this: a) If people were able to opt for high deductible plans as they can at many of the non-unionized shops, how many of them do it? b) How many of the ones who do so have severe regrets when something bad happens? c) How many of these people (who are assuming a significant portion of their medical expense risk) actually set aside reserve funds from that higher wage to be prepared for the possibility of a medical catastrophe? The answer to all of these questions is "hard to tell".
As I'm sure you're aware, not all of our brethren have the intellectual capacity to make educated, well-reasoned and informed choices that are in their own overall long term best interest. That is where having these choices made on their behalf and collectively comes into play. At day's end, are they better off? Probably! Does that come with a hefty price tag? Yes! Do some of our brethren pay less attention to taking care of themselves because they have that "Cadillac" insurance? Sadly, I believe there's merit to that question. I wish they would ALL take really good care of themselves. That would reduce the costs of that "Cadillac" insurance.