Health Insurance is a hot topic today, and if you do not
have coverage through an employer, Medicare, Medicaid or similar
organization, it pays to shop for health insurance. There are a
variety of plans with different deductibles, co-payments, waiting periods,
limits, actual coverage provided and lots of conditions and exclusions,
and some provide coverage for medication and some don't.
The key to shopping for health insurance is to know what you want, know
what you can afford and understand the insurance contract. It is also
a good idea to check the financial stability of the company providing the
insurance, check with the State Insurance Department which regulates such
insurance, about how many legitimate complaints have been filed against the
provider.
You should also determine if you want to freely choose any Doctor or
facility you want or if you want to be in a "Plan" that has a network of
Doctors and facilities and specific labs etc you must go to for tests and
other medical services.
Again, the key is to be very well informed about the insurance or plan,
and to know what will not be covered and how much you may need to pay out of
pocket. Speak or send email to the company or agent if you have specific
questions.
You don't want to find out what you need to know when you wake up after
major surgery or you find out you have a serious disease or illness.