Medical Health Insurance

Medical health insurance is one of the most important purchases you can make in planning for the safety and well-being of you and your family. If you’re not covered by a group plan at work, there are many inexpensive plans available for purchase. Some of these plans are more flexible than others, so you need to make sure that you’re getting a plan that will fit your needs.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. When purchasing a medical health insurance plan, you’ll have to pay a premium, which is a monthly fee that goes towards covering the cost of the medical expenses covered by the insurance provider.
  2. Many medical health insurance plans have a deductible worked into the contract, which means that you’ll have to pay a portion of the costs yourself before the coverage kicks in.
  3. Almost all plans feature exclusions, which are services or products that aren’t covered. The insured will have to pay for these privately. Common exclusions include doctor’s notes, frequent (more than annual) physical exams and some brand-name medications.
  4. Another way that medical health insurance providers regulate the amount they will pay out for each customer is by establishing coverage limits. This is a clause worked into the insurance agreement that states the maximum amount of money the insurer will pay out, typically in a year, but sometimes also for particular services or medications.
  5. Many providers offer incentives for consumers to increase their healthy living behaviors, such as quitting smoking or losing weight. They may offer reduced premiums, extra coverage or even cash refunds.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Medical Health Insurance Provider

  1. Are you adaptable to my personal situation? Some providers have a standard plan that they don’t deviate from, and if you have alternate circumstances (e.g., children or other dependents, long-term conditions) the coverage may not fit your needs.
  2. How flexible are your plans? Some insurers offer great alternatives in their plans, including drawing cash in case of long-term illness or injury, or plans to help you cover regular expenses in case you’re debilitated for any extent of time.
  3. Do any of my pre-existing conditions limit my coverage? Sometimes providers are hesitant to offer complete coverage to someone with pre-existing conditions, such as heart problems, diabetes or a history of cancer. You could be unexpectedly dropped by your provider or refused payment if these conditions come to light later.

Also Known As: Health coverage, medical plans, blue cross, medical benefits, health plans, group health insurance, healthcare insurance, medical insurance

Your health is too important to take lightly. The information on this website is intended to start you down the path to living well, but it’s only just the beginning.

Each of us is unique, and we all deserve the individual attention that only a health care professional can provide. So do what’s in your best interest - take the next step and find doctors or surgeons in your area today.