Health Insurance

If you are looking for an individual health plan, you can choose from four basic types of health insurance coverage:

• Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). With an HMO, you are required to pick a primary care physician, and the policy will generally not cover out-of network, non-emergency care. Certain types of urgent care, however, will be covered even if it was provided by an out-of-network doctor. HMOs typically offer the lowest premiums compared to other plans.
• Point of Service Plan (POS). Like an HMO, with a POS policy you must choose a primary care doctor, but for a little extra out-of-pocket money you can also receive out-of-network care even for non-emergency procedures. You will need to get a referral, however, from your primary care physician in order to see a specialist.
• Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). This kind of health plan will cover care from health professionals outside of your network, but you will pay less for in-network care. With a PPO you also do not need to choose a primary care physician nor do you need a referral to see a specialist.
• Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO). With an EPO, you are not required to choose a primary care physician, and you do not need a referral for a specialist. But, you will need to pay out-of-pocket for medical care outside of your plan’s network.

What Should You Look for in a Health Insurance Policy?

When choosing a health care plan, there are three basic questions you need to ask:
1. What types of care are covered? Coverage options and benefits not only vary by plan, but they also vary by state. Make sure to be clear about the types of essential medical care that is covered by any health care plan offered within your state.

2. What are the out-of-pocket costs? When comparing health insurance plans, don’t just look at the monthly premiums. Additional costs, such as the annual deductible, copayments and coinsurance can vary significantly from one plan to another.

3. Will the plan’s provider network fit your circumstances? You should pay particular attention to the doctors and medical facilities that are included in the plan’s network. Where are they located and how easy will it be to reach them? Do you already have a doctor you like, and is he or she a part of the network?

Our free online health insurance comparison tool at Insuret.com shows health plans offered in state and federal marketplaces. It’s easy to use and only takes a few minutes. So what are you waiting for? Compare Health Insurance plans and start saving now!