Superior Donuts Season 1 Episode 8 Man Without a Health Plan

Superior Donuts is a comedy series that revolves around a donut shop owned by Arthur Przybyszewski. The show takes place in Chicago, and Arthur is an old-school type of guy who has owned the place for almost 50 years. Franco Wicks is Arthur’s new employee, and he brings a fresh perspective to the shop, which often brings conflict between the two. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of running a business while trying to maintain their friendship.

In season 1 episode 8, entitled “Man Without a Health Plan,” Arthur (Judd Hirsch) finds himself in a bind when he realizes that he doesn’t have health insurance. His situation becomes even more complicated when he learns that his ex-wife wants to take him off her policy. Desperately trying to find a solution, Arthur turns to Franco (Jermaine Fowler) for help.

Franco suggests that Arthur get in touch with his old friend, Doctor Gabriel Berkow (guest star Erik Griffin), who could help him get the medical attention he needs. Gabriel’s office, however, is located on the south side of Chicago, which is a rough part of town. Nevertheless, Arthur agrees to visit Gabriel, and Franco accompanies him for support.

When Arthur sees the ominous-looking building that Gabriel’s office is located in, he becomes hesitant about visiting. Franco assures him that everything will be fine and they proceed to the doctor’s office. Upon arrival, they are greeted by a group of patients who are waiting to see Gabriel. It becomes immediately apparent that the office is packed and understaffed.

Arthur begins filling out the medical form and is shocked at the number of questions being asked. He worries that he’s going to be turned away due to his lapsed coverage and lack of funds. Franco jumps in and provides the answers for Arthur, filling out the form with information he knows about Arthur.

Arthur is then seen by Gabriel, who turns out to be a very eccentric and unorthodox doctor. Gabriel’s methods are not conventional, but he seems to have a good heart and genuinely cares about his patients. Gabriel eventually diagnoses Arthur with a medical issue and prescribes a medication.

When Arthur tries to pay for the medication, Gabriel informs him that he doesn’t accept insurance and he’ll have to pay out of pocket. This proves to be a costly visit, as Arthur is forced to pay for both the medication and the office visit. Afterward, Arthur is both grateful for the medical treatment but also indignant that he had to pay so much.

Franco recommends that Arthur set up a health savings account to save money for future medical expenses. Arthur is reluctant to do so, but Franco insists that it’s the best option for him since he doesn’t have insurance. Meanwhile, Randy (Katey Sagal) is having issues with her landlord, who is trying to evict her from her apartment.

Randy confides in Franco about her situation and he offers to help her. Franco explains that he knows of a lawyer who can assist with her case and recommends that she make an appointment to speak with him. Randy is grateful for Franco’s help and accepts his offer.

As the episode concludes, Franco affirms that he’s happy to be working at the donut shop with Arthur, and Randy seems to have found a way out of her housing predicament. In the end, the episode serves as a reminder that despite the challenges life throws our way, often it's the support of friends like Franco and Arthur that help us to overcome them.