Health Insurance Plans for Individuals/Families

08/05/2009
Under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), the federal economic recovery plan offers a subsidy for employees who wish to continue their health insurance after job loss.  As long as they are qualified for a new health insurance plan, the subsidy will pay 65% of their insurance premium for nine months.COBRA offers continuing group/business health insurance for workers who lost their jobs. Signed into law in February 2009, this new subsidy covers involuntary job loss between September 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009, and applies to those who were terminated for any cause as long as it was not because of gross misconduct, as set in the IRS guidelines. Workers cut in large layoffs may also avail themselves of the subsidy.In a notice, the IRS explains, “If the company would have terminated the employee’s services and the employee had knowledge that he/she would be terminated, the retirement is involuntary.”  Moreover, although COBRA mostly covers offices with at least 20 workers, smaller companies or groups that are under state mini-Cobra plans may also avail themselves of the subsidy. If the employee worked in a company that pays for COBRA premiums, he/she is only required to pay 35% of the total health plan for up to nine months.Once qualified, a laid-off employee can use the Health Coverage Tax Credit, which shoulders 80% of health premiums for retirees that receive financial support from Pension Benefit Corporation. This also covers workers who lost their jobs due to technical modernization or deferral trade policies. Workers who do not qualify for the subsidy are those who have a gross income of more than $125,000 a year or $250,000 for joint filers.

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08/05/2009
The purpose of health insurance is to provide medical and financial protection. But according to estimates, three-quarters of those who filed for personal bankruptcy due to medical problems were actually insured.As Washington pushes to cover almost every American in the proposed health insurance reform, many health-policy experts agree that having everyone insured will not fix the rough edges of the system. With many people already covered, a medical crisis would definitely mean financial calamity.Lawrence Yurdin, a computer security specialist, filed for bankruptcy even though he had medical insurance. The 64-year-old’s Aetna policy indicated up to $150,000 worth of coverage per year. However, almost his treatments at a hospital in Austin, Texas, were not covered by his policy. Last December, Yurdin and his wife filed for bankruptcy with $200,000 worth of medical bills to pay.Lawmakers are struggling with legislation details that would create minimum insurance coverage standards. With the expensive price tag, lawmakers could lean toward less comprehensive coverage for some policy holders.However, patient advocates stress the necessity of laying down basic levels of insurance coverage to protect individuals like Yurdin from bankruptcy. They also want new federal rules that would prevent some insurance firms from selling worthless and incomprehensive policies.According to Elizabeth Warren, a law professor from Harvard who studies medical bankruptcies, “Underinsurance is the great hidden risk of the American health care system. People do not realize they are one diagnosis away from financial collapse.”Republican senator Charles E. Grassley from the Senate Finance Committee points out the same thing as he emphasizes the need to make “meaningful” insurance policies more accessible and affordable. “Until that happens,” Grassley continued, “any presentation of limited-benefit plans ought to be completely straightforward, and not misleading in any way.”

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08/05/2009
A recent survey commissioned by health insurance company CIGNA has found that when it comes to health care costs women are far more likely to search for bargains, such as by using healthcare comparison sites, than men are.Kurt Weimer, who leads the companies division for individuals along with small businesses, says: “From our perspective, women have always been sort of the key decision maker in health care selection. It’s moved to the next level… Not only are they making that health care decision, now they’re looking at the economics.”The survey found that out of the 1,000 people questioned only 15% of men compare the costs of medical treatments and doctors in comparison to 20% of women. The survey also found that 79% of Women were more likely to buy the generic own brand range of medications, whereas only 69% of men would look to a generic range as opposed to the well known, and more expensive brands.Weimer goes on to say that the recession has forced mothers to take on the role of “Chief financial officer” as well as “Chief medical officer”, pointing out “If you’re like all of us, you’re looking at how to make ends meet.”Executive director of the National Association of Mothers Centers (motherscenter.org) believes that women might be feeling the pressure of the recession and downturn in the economy more so than men because they make “the bulk of the buying decisions for the family”.

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08/05/2009

Insurance companies are seeing an increase in short-term health insurance applications this year.
 
Texas insurance company Blue Cross and Blue Shield expects an increase of 33% in individual short-term health insurance applications in the first half of the year.
 
Margaret Jarvis, spokesperson for Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Texas, said sales of individual health plans, whether short-term or long-term, in the first half of last year, were at a record high for the company. Sales of both types of individual insurance, Jarvis said, increased by over 30%.
The increasing interest in getting individual health care plans, in general, and in short-term insurance plans, in particular, is evident in the recent launching of more short-term individual policies by big health insurance companies. Shifting from group health insurance to temporary individual health coverage indicates the growing number of unemployed people in the U.S.
Recently, the Golden Rule subsidiary of United Healthcare in Texas launched two new short-term health plans that are specifically designed to cater to the health care needs of the unemployed not qualified for the subsidized health plans under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) or those who cannot afford it.
COBRA is a federal program that offers up to nine months of subsidy to those who wish to continue their health insurance after losing their job. COBRA, however, can also be very expensive for those who do not meet the primary requirements.
Another insurance company, Humana, opened a new short-term insurance plan in April for Arizona, Colorado, Alabama, Ohio, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Michigan.
Richard Collins, CEO of United Healthcare Golden Rule, said temporary health plans are necessary especially now, when the economy is not yet stable.

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08/05/2009

Health insurance costs in Alabama have increased by 95% since 2000, according to the Health Care Status report.
 
The report reveals that the number of small businesses or companies providing health coverage benefits to workers dropped by two percent since 2000. Currently, only 48% of small employers in Alabama offer health benefits to workers.
 
The soaring costs of health insurance have affected individuals as well. According to the report, 28% of middle-class families spend at least 10% of their total income on health care.
 
A related study found that the limited options offered by health insurance companies is an issue related to these rising costs. According to the study, BlueCross-BlueShield controls an 83% share of Alabama’s health insurance market. Roughly, 13.6% of Alabamians are uninsured.
 
Options for health insurance are even more limited for individuals with pre-existing conditions. In Alabama, the costs of health insurance vary based on health status and demographic factors. Coverage can also exclude some pre-existing conditions or even be completely denied.
 
The report also says that 16% of people in Alabama do not visit a doctor due to the high costs. Moreover, families and businesses in Alabama pay a hidden health tax of about $600 each year on premiums to subsidize the costs of the uninsured.
 
Currently, approximately 2.9 million people in Alabama avail themselves of health plans through their jobs. Subsidized by their employers, these people have an average family premium of $12,230.
 
Based on the Health Care Status Quo report, the need for health care reform in Alabama and across the U.S. is clear.

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08/05/2009

These days, young adults are learning about individual health insurance the hard way.
 
Sarah Posekany, a 27-year-old nursing student, was forced to file for bankruptcy. She underwent colon surgery and she was uninsured. Posekany is still in debt and she owes a medical bill of thousands of dollars.
 
"It's not fair," Posekany said. "We should learn how to be a strong nation and take care of everybody."
 
Katie Miletti is a 24-year-old college student. Although she survived cancer as a child, she still has to deal with her treatment’s side effects. She was removed from her mother’s policy, as she was already too old. For one month, she was left uninsured. She later qualified for Medicaid, a federal-state program for health insurance.
 
"Everyone should have health insurance," she said. "I don't think it should matter what your health problems are, how rich you are, or what your income is."
 
Called “the young invincibles” by the insurance industry, these young adults think that they will never get hurt or sick.
 
Nick Bernstein felt that way once, too. Bernstein became a waiter to pay off his college loans. He also planned to get a wine-production graduate degree. He filled his leisure time with snowboarding and backpacking.
 
While snowboarding last April 1, Bernstein had an accident, which left his collarbone broken.
 
At first, he wasn’t sure if he had insurance at all. Fortunately, his stepfather’s health plan was still able to cover a part of his $27,000 medical bill. However, this coverage might stop before he gets well. He was diagnosed with a staph infection. As he is incapable of working now, he still has to find a way to get insurance before his 25th birthday, as he will be dropped from the policy of his stepfather.

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08/05/2009

Expensive premium costs are the main reason being cited by millions of US citizens as to why they cannot avail themselves of individual health insurance policies, according to a recent study published in “Health Day News” last Tuesday.
 
Approximately three out four people want to buy a policy but are not able to get one because the cost of the premium is prohibitive, based on a report by the Commonwealth Fund, which is a foundation that financially supports an independent research on health insurance reform. Around 57 percent admitted that finding coverage they could afford is bordering on very hard to downright impossible.
 
A survey conducted for the report also cited that 47 percent of the respondents said that finding the plan with the coverage they needed was difficult or impossible. Another 36 percent stated that they were charged additional rates or their application was denied due to a pre-existing condition. Some companies had their condition excluded from their coverage altogether.
 
The report, called ‘Failure to Protect: Why the Individual Insurance Market is Not a Viable Option for Most US Families, compared the experiences of adults in the working-age bracket who have employer- and individual-based private health insurance.
 
In the report, it was also found that people who acquired health insurance individually pay more money on deductibles and premiums than those with group or business health care coverage.
 
Among US adults who have individual insurance, the survey showed that 64 percent spend more or less $3,000 on premiums annually, while only 20 percent of people who have employer-based insurance are spending that much.

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08/05/2009

Medical insurance companies are usually wary of providing coverage to athletes who want to get health insurance. This is true despite the fact that the very active lifestyle of athletes results in their good health. Compared to other people, athletes eat well, exercise regularly, and get a lot of rest. Although this kind of lifestyle could be beneficial for an athlete’s long-term health, athletes are not immune to getting injuries.
 
For an athlete to improve his performance, he usually goes through strenuous training. However, when an athlete exerts himself too much in training, he is bound to experience its negative effects. While pushing one’s limits can mean triumph for an athlete, overdoing one’s training can lead to serious injuries and a visit to the hospital.
 
Every year, two million adults experience injuries that are sports-related. Sciatica, concussions, bone fractures, anterior knee pain, medial epicondylitis, rotator cuff injury, and lateral epicondylitis are just some of the injuries commonly sustained by athletes.
 
Many people are finding that getting preventative health care is becoming more difficult with the rising cost of health care in the U.S. This is even worse for athletes who need to regularly see health care professionals, as they strain their bodies with exercise on a regular basis. To supplement an athlete’s fitness and nutritional needs, regular visits to the doctor are essential in maintaining good health.
 
Athletes who have a health plan can optimize their training by regularly meeting with a physical therapist or a doctor who has experience in working with athletes. If an athlete has an accident, he has a number of options to choose from to get physical therapy. If an athlete has appropriate access to health care, he will find it easier to maintain his health and to prevent expensive and possibly irreversible injuries.

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08/05/2009

Cancer health insurance is designed to help reduce expenses for cancer care. However, it is not intended to replace group/business or individual health insurance policies. Rather, cancer insurance is meant to complement health plans that are already in place by dealing with extra expenses not covered by your existing policy.
 
To be eligible for cancer insurance, an individual should not have an existing cancerous condition. People who have been diagnosed and treated for cancer are in most cases ineligible for such a policy.
 
There are a wide variety of cancer insurance policies, so it is necessary to read the documentation carefully and understand it thoroughly before buying one. The coverage differs based on its provider, although most plans cover both medical and non-medical expenses. You should read it and compare it with your existing policy to check if there are certain benefits that overlap. You also need to be aware of the limitations of the policy beforehand.
 
To know if you really need a specific health insurance plan, like cancer insurance, you should determine the extent of your cancer risk. If you have a strong family history of cancer, it would be wise for you to consider including this kind of insurance in your coverage. However, if you only have an average risk of having cancer, a better option might be to upgrade the coverage of your existing insurance policy. This will help you save money and increase your range of benefits. Lastly, before signing anything, make sure that you have completed a comparison check of all the plans available to decide which policy is best for you.
 

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08/05/2009

One of the most important decisions for families is selecting the appropriate family health plan. Before modern health plans were offered, there was only one kind of service, which is now known as the fee-for-service option. Today, there are many plans to choose from. Before choosing a health insurance plan, it is best to make health insurance comparisons to know fully what are the available options. Basically, there are two major issues that people must address when choosing a health insurance plan: the needs and the budget.
 
Firstly, people must realize that health plans do not cover everything. It is crucial to know the needs that must be addressed to avoid spending on plans that offer irrelevant services. After considering the type of plan to purchase, the next logical step is to fully understand the benefits offered, as well as the plan’s guidelines.
 
So where do budget and needs meet? As we all know, a teenager and a baby boomer have different needs. It’s a good thing that every health insurance plan employs different ways to cover different kinds of situations. After understanding the type of coverage needed, the next thing that needs to be considered is affordability. As a rule of thumb, the more comprehensive the insurance plan, the more expensive it will be. Often, consumers base the type of coverage they purchase on their financial status.
 
Of course, monetary issues are important because health insurance is just one of the basic needs that families must address. Families also have to pay for the children’s education and everyday needs. That is why it is very important to consider all the factors before purchasing a health plan: in order to find a plan where price and coverage meet.

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08/05/2009

It is very difficult to go through a divorce. There are many things to worry about, and health insurance is one of these. Health insurance coverage issues, such as continuing the policy you had before the divorce, can be very challenging. People who are about to be divorced may be worried about how their health insurance coverage will be affected by the divorce. You must study the options that are available to you. If you are satisfied with your current coverage, find out how you can maintain it. If not, you can look for another health insurance plan whose rate you find reasonable.
 
There are fewer things to worry about when you are insured under a group health insurance plan provided by your employer or when you have individual health insurance. In these cases, your health insurance coverage will not be affected when you get divorced. The bigger problem happens when you are insured under the group health insurance policy of your spouse. When the divorce is finalized, your coverage is terminated as well.
 
In this case, getting COBRA coverage is a good option. With COBRA, you can continue your coverage simply by paying premiums.
 
If COBRA coverage is not a possible option for your use, or if you are not satisfied with your current insurance company, you always have the option to get a health insurance policy from a different insurance company. In some ways, doing this would be beneficial, as you will have a fresh start with a possibly better insurance company. However, getting a completely new policy may be difficult, as there will also be a number of restrictions associated with a new policy.

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08/05/2009

If you are considering having liposuction, breast enlargement, rhinoplasty, or breast reduction you are not alone. Plastic surgery has become very common nowadays, so that people can now have an express treatment done over a coffee break within a busy day. In 2006, around 11 million plastic surgery procedures were completed in the United States. However, having an elective surgical procedure can be very expensive. Only a very small number of individual health insurance policies provide coverage for these procedures. An example of a covered procedure is reconstructive surgery or if the cosmetic procedure is necessary for your health. Usually, coverage of these procedures is only provided for special cases, and even so, it is possible that not all of the expenses will be covered by the policy.
 
Health insurance companies usually provide coverage for elective procedures under a number of special circumstances. These special circumstances include being in an accident (reconstructive surgery), being excessively overweight (liposuction), having a mastectomy (breast reconstruction), and having problems with one’s respiratory health (rhinoplasty).
 
To know whether the elective procedure that you wish to have is covered by your plan or not and how much it would cost you if it is not covered, you must consult with your health insurance provider. However, it might be better for you to get another insurance plan if the operation you wish to have is just for cosmetic purposes. Getting a different plan could lessen the cost.
 

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08/05/2009

Finding individual health insurance at an affordable rate is an achievable reality. There are many ways in which health insurance can be obtained. The rule of thumb to keep in mind is that the plans that have the most members are more likely to provide more, and therefore better, savings for their members.
 
Self-employed individuals can apply for health insurance plans through the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE). NASE is the country’s leading resource for micro-businesses that brings together a wide range of benefits to assist entrepreneurs and to contribute to the growth of this important segment of the US economy. This organization has programs known as the 105 HFR through which small businesses are given the option to subtract all of their non-insured medical expenses and premiums from the federal, state and self-employment taxes.
 
Also by simply becoming a member of organizations such as alumni or trade associations, an employee may secure a cheap, individual health plan. Employees should join an association that is pertinent to their job description. For instance if the employee is a journalist their best option is to join the American Society of Journalists and Authors. Nevertheless, an association does not always have to be job-related in order to be relevant to an individual. An organization can be relevant to someone just because he is a single dad.
 
These associations can offer affordable, individual health insurance plans because, unlike group health plans, they are not intensely scrutinized by state regulations. One must bear in mind that the premiums offered to members will not always be uniform as is the case for premiums in group health plans.

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08/05/2009

According to the American Pregnancy Association, every year, 13% of pregnant women are not enrolled in any health plan. In addition, because pregnant women find it difficult to purchase health plans, many of them either shoulder all the medical expenses of their pregnancy or receive insufficient pre-natal care.
 
Pregnant women are frequently denied health coverage by insurance companies mainly because pregnancy prior to obtaining insurance is considered a pre-existing condition. To many insurance companies people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as cancer, liver and heart disease, are “high risk candidates” who need more financial assistance. The law allows health insurance providers to decline applicants who are classified as “high risk”, and many of them do so.
 
However, pregnant women who do not have maternity coverage in their health plan or who do not have any medical insurance at all still have options that can assist them with their medical expenses. One important option for uninsured pregnant women is AmeriPlan, an American company that offers discounted maternity coverage. For a very low monthly fee pregnant women can have access to an array of maternity and prenatal care services. AmeriPlan also gives as much as a 50% discount at some health care providers.
 
Pregnant women with low incomes may also seek assistance from Medicaid, a health care program funded by the federal government. Women, Infants and Children (WIC), another government-funded organization, provides an additional option for uninsured pregnant women. WIC even provides grants or assistance, such as health care referrals and even food supplements to low-income pregnant women as well as to children under five years of age who are found to be at nutritional risk.
 

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08/05/2009

A discount health-plan organization provides its members with access to discounted health care. Members of discount health plans pay for membership on a monthly or yearly basis. This type of health plan also provides discounted rates on medical-related services.
 
Companies that run or offer discount plans are not insurance companies. Discount plans are also not insurance policies that provide broad health coverage.
 
Many discount plans offer discounts of up to 40% on medical, vision, hearing and dental services. A discount health plan is often an attractive option for those who cannot purchase health insurance due to pre-existing conditions. Discount health plan providers, unlike insurance companies, do not pay health care providers for their services.
 
Before enrolling in a discount health plan, make sure that the total amount you will pay for your membership fees annually will not exceed the money you are going to save in discounts. It is also wise to make sure that there are enough drugstores and health care providers in your local area and that these providers are trustworthy. A disadvantage of a discount plan is the fact that there is no regulatory agency monitoring discount-plan companies. Therefore, verifying whether the company you are considering is reputable or not is often a challenge. It is necessary to assess every aspect of the discount plan before choosing to sign up.
 
However, if you think you will spend a lot on prescriptions and health care services over the following year and if you do not have health insurance, a discount health plan might be the right solution for you.

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08/05/2009

The second most common cause of cancer-related death in women in America is breast cancer; the leading cause is lung cancer. One out of eight American women will have breast cancer at sometime in their life. However, only one out of 28 American women will die of it. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer it is important to have a reliable health insurance policy, which will help you get the necessary health care. With the availability of regular breast examinations and mammograms conducted in clinics, you will have a greater chance of surviving breast cancer if you have a good health insurance policy.
 
Everyone, regardless of age or gender, can develop breast cancer. It is extremely important to detect breast cancer early as the chances of curing it are then much higher. Regular mammograms and breast examinations conducted in clinics are the best ways of detecting breast cancer. These should be done on a regular basis to detect the cancer as early as possible.
 
A great number of women are affected by breast cancer. It is important that all women have health insurance policies that not only cover mammograms, but also the necessary medical attention that they will need if they are diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast reconstruction, mastectomy, chemotherapy and follow-up appointments with the doctor should all be covered by the policy. By law health insurance policies that cover mastectomy procedures must also cover breast reconstruction.
 
In 1998 the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act was passed. It protects patients with breast cancer who wish to have breast reconstruction after undergoing a mastectomy. Under this act insurance companies and other HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) who offer coverage for mastectomies must also offer coverage for breast reconstruction.

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08/05/2009

Pre-existing conditions are medical conditions that a person has before he or she signs up for a health insurance policy. The term usually has a negative connotation. A pre-existing condition could make you ineligible for health insurance. If an individual with a pre-existing condition is eligible for health care coverage, he or she will probably pay higher premiums than usual.
 
Individuals with pre-existing conditions who would like to get health insurance should not worry as some insurers do offer coverage for people in this situation. However, a number of restrictions may be applied. Each insurance company that offers health plans will have a different underwriting procedure.
 
Pre-existing conditions come in a variety of forms. Obesity, diabetes, arthritis, depression and pregnancy are just some of the most common pre-existing conditions. Some insurance companies have a list of the pre-existing conditions for which they offer insurance coverage. Each insurance company as well as having its own list will also have its own standards when it comes to offering insurance for pre-existing conditions.
 
Usually an insurance company will ask a newly insured person to go through a waiting period. It is only after this period that a person’s pre-existing condition will be covered by his or her health insurance. A number of individual health insurance policies will ask the individual to go through a waiting period that is usually from 12 to 18 months long. Only after this period will the company pay for any medical expenses that arise from the person’s pre-existing condition.
 
Fortunately, people with pre-existing conditions who get health insurance are protected by a number of laws. One of these is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA).

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08/05/2009

Nowadays, it is difficult to find an affordable health insurance plan. The rising costs of health care as well as those of health insurance have contributed to this. However, do not let this discourage you from acquiring insurance or force you to get the first health insurance plan you see. Remember that you have several options that will still leave you with health insurance costs that you can afford.
 
To be able to choose the health care insurance plan that is right for you, you will need to spend some time looking at your options critically. Going through this process will help reduce your health insurance costs. It is also important for you to accurately assess the kind of health care that you need. People require different kinds of health care depending on their age and health status.
 
You will be able to save money when you get an individual health insurance plan that only covers the kind of health care that you need. To get reduced health insurance costs, take your time and research the various options that are available. You will find that the differences between the prices of similar health plans from different insurance companies can be astonishing.
 
These days, it is very easy for anyone to look for health insurance plans. With the internet, finding the best choice for you just takes a little bit of effort and time. With many plans and providers just a click away, you can easily find a plan at an affordable cost.
 
Even though costs are rising, you still have several options that you can choose from. You just need to do some research and take the time to plan.

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08/05/2009

A health plan is definitely something to consider whenever you are about to have a baby or if you are going to adopt. To protect the health of your baby, a health plan is certainly necessary. To provide the new member of your family with the same coverage as you, the best option is to include your baby in your existing individual health insurance policy.
 
If you currently do not have health insurance coverage, it would be very wise to consider getting a health insurance policy. This would not only be good for your health care needs, but for your baby’s needs as well. If you already have a health insurance policy, another option would be to make its coverage level higher. Now that you have a child, you must also ensure that you are able to maintain your health so that you can take care of your child.
 
If you plan on adding your baby to your health insurance policy, make sure that your policy will allow you to do that. If possible, compare the increase in your policy’s premium after the addition of your baby to your policy with the premium for a new policy. Choose the one which is the most efficient in terms of cost.
 
It is also important to understand the requirements that must be satisfied when adding your baby to your policy. Doing this will help you stick to the rules set by the company and thus enable the quick addition of your baby to your policy.
 
Finally consider your policy options and the kind of coverage that they include. It is important that your baby is fully covered. Immunizations, visits to the doctor and others should be included.
 

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08/05/2009

Insuring the safety and health of one’s child is a top priority for all parents. It is therefore very important to find a health insurance plan that will meet your child’s needs. Health insurance will not only help protect your child’s health, but it will also protect you from expensive medical fees. Frequent visits to the doctor and check-ups are normal for children. With health insurance, you can have peace of mind and ensure that your child is being well taken care of.
 
Parents usually find it difficult to search for affordable health insurance for their children. It is not surprising that they only want the best coverage option for their children. Although the health care needs of a child are a primary concern of every parent, it is also important to find a plan that will fit the family’s financial requirements. Fortunately, it is no longer difficult to find appropriate health insurance for one’s child.
 
Nowadays, parents have many options when choosing their child’s health insurance plan. An individual health insurance plan is one of these options, which parents can get from public and private entities. A large number of PPOs and HMOs have individual health insurance plans designed specifically for children. For families with a low income, federal and state plans, such as the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, offer individual health insurance custom-made for children.
 
Parents can also add their children to their group health insurance plans if their employers provide them with group health coverage. If you cannot access a group health insurance plan from your employer, you can look for one through private agencies. A large number of HMOs and PPOs offer family and group health insurance plans.

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08/05/2009

Every year the United States has a large number of visitors. People come either as tourists or to visit their relatives living in the U.S. Others also come as prospective immigrants on various kinds of visas.
 
Health care in the U.S. has become so expensive that in the event visitors get sick or need hospitalization, it is often difficult to meet the costs. Since no one knows when they will become ill or have an accident, it is necessary for a visitor to enroll in a medical insurance plan, even a temporary one, covering his or her stay in a foreign country. Medical insurance is necessary for visitors who are staying longer, such as parents of green card holders. Older people, especially those coming from tropical regions, cannot adapt to the cold climate as well.
 
The US Department of Health provides free visitor insurance quotes and information about this topic. Medical health insurance plans usually provide coverage for hospital stay, surgery, prescription drugs and doctor visits.
 
Before entering the U.S. potential visitors should check the websites of medical insurance companies for benefits, hospital facilities and premiums. Look for insurance companies that offer affordable and much-needed benefits. Many visitors and new immigrants recommend nriol.net as a source for good medical insurance agents that give quick responses to inquiries.
 
Insurance companies offer different health plans. Although there are several medical insurance plans for travelers, these plans can be classified into two categories: Fixed Benefit Plans and Comprehensive Plans.
 
Fixed benefits plans include "Inbound USA", "Inbound Immigrant" and "Visitors Care." Examples of Comprehensive Benefits plans are "Diplomat Long Term Insurance", "Visit USA Healthcare Insurance" and "World Long Term Insurance."
 
You might think, especially if your stay is a short one, that traveling to a foreign country without medical insurance is acceptable. However, although medical insurance for foreigners may be costly, it provides peace of mind and if you should be unfortunate and require medical treatment you will be glad that you purchased medical insurance.

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08/05/2009

For low-income earners in the U.S., the rising cost of health care in the country has become a very big problem. According to the Commonwealth Fund, 96% of families who earn $60,000 or more per year have health insurance that they can use to pay the burdensome expenses of health care. On the other hand, 53% of families who are considered to have low incomes are either uninsured or have had a lapse in their coverage.
 
For families without insurance, the consequences can be devastating. Unlike persons and families with insurance, individuals and families without insurance tend to avoid going to a doctor. Because of high costs these uninsured individuals or families do not get the urgent or preventative care they need. A lack of access to preventative care often means that uninsured individuals are diagnosed with serious diseases when they are already at an advanced stage.  In addition a third of families without insurance find it extremely difficult to pay for their medical bills.
 
If PPOs and HMOs are too costly for a family’s budget, there are alternative options. These options include the Health Savings Account and the Mini Medical Insurance Plan.
 
A Mini Medical Plan can cost as little as $50 per month. This would include coverage for prescription drugs, hospital benefits, a number of visits to a doctor and partial accident coverage.
 
Another relatively new and inexpensive way to get coverage for one’s health needs is the Health Savings Account (HSA). HSAs work when used together with a health plan called the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). The premium for an HSA is significantly lower than premiums for PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations) and HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations).

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08/05/2009

Many Americans suffer from some form of mental health issue such as depression, anxiety or stress.  The stigma that was once so firmly attached to these disorders has significantly lifted and many health insurers now provide comprehensive coverage for substance-abuse treatment, therapy, in-patient care and other mental-health services.
Insurance coverage for mental-health services varies from provider to provider and across states.  Some states have laws outlining a minimum standard of care for mental issues or substance-abuse treatment, though many plans offer much more coverage than state minimums.  Coverage for mental health or substance abuse is typically not as comprehensive as other medical services and may require higher deductibles or co-pays.  The Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 mandates that insurance plans that offer mental health services set dollar amount limits for this coverage equal to those of other kinds of medical care.  The law does not, however, require all health insurance carriers to offer coverage for mental-health treatment.  Many states have parity laws, as well, so check with your state’s insurance department to find out about regulations in your area.
There are potentially very many professionals involved in mental-health treatment:  primary-care physicians, physician assistants, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, substance-abuse counselors, therapists, nurses, etc.  It is important to explore all of your options before seeking treatment and to coordinate care with specialists through both your primary-care doctor and your insurance company.  Before you seek treatment for a mental health issue, contact your insurance carrier and request a written outline of the services covered by your plan.  Find out if you will need a referral from your primary-care physician, and if there are any restrictions on the kind of care you are eligible for or the providers you have access to.  Be sure to ask about any out-of-pocket fees you may incur while seeking treatment, whether you are required to use in-network providers, and other options available to you through your insurance plan.
Some companies offer employee assistance programs (EAP).  These services can be a part of a larger health insurance package or can be entirely separate programs.  Visits to therapists or counselors are usually free, though the number of times you can see a provider may be limited.  EAPs cover preventative and diagnostic services; many provide assistance with substance abuse, stress, depression, family and marriage counseling.  If your employer offers an EAP, you can rest assured that any information you share with a mental-health professional is completely confidential and your employer never receives any information about your treatment.
Both Medicare and Medicaid cover mental-health and substance-abuse services.  If you are eligible for either of these programs, check with your plan representative or caseworker for more information and help locating an approved provider or treatment facility.
Certain states offer public mental-health services such as state-funded clinics where payment is calculated on a sliding scale based on your income level or what you can afford to pay.  Many of these facilities also offer financial assistance to patients who qualify.
 

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08/05/2009

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is a human immune system disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This disease progressively makes the immune system ineffective, leaving a person susceptible to tumors and infections. HIV is transmitted through direct contact of a mucous membrane with a bodily fluid, such as semen or vaginal fluid, containing HIV. The transmission can be transmitted through blood transfusion, sex and contaminated needles.
 
Since 2007, AIDS has affected 33.2 million people worldwide and it has killed more than two million people, including an estimated 330,000 children. And while this virus progressively makes your immune system weak, being infected with HIV weakens your body’s capability of fighting against other disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
 
AIDS and HIV have no cure but treatments can slow down the course of the disease. People with HIV or AIDS should undergo the Antiretroviral treatment that reduces both the morbidity of HIV infection. However, aside from being expensive, these drugs are not available in many countries.
 
If diagnosed with AIDS, getting a health plan or being enrolled in a health program is indeed necessary.
 
There are some programs that provide assistance to people with AIDS. The AIDS Health Insurance Program (AHIP) is designed for those with AIDS or any HIV-related disease but not eligible for Medicaid and cannot afford an insurance. The AHIP pays for your health insurance premiums but excludes deductibles and co-payments.
 
To qualify, you must be ineligible for Medicaid and should have an insurance plan during the time of application. Monthly income should also not be higher than $2,096 for a household of two or $1,559 if single.
 
If your income disqualifies you from the AHIP program, you may also apply for the ADAP Plus Insurance Continuation Program (APIC). APIC, which started in 2000, is administered by the AIDS Drug Assistance Program of the New York State Department of Health. The program assists in paying health plan premiums of people with HIV. Individuals with an annual gross income of $44,000; a family of two with up to $59, 200; and a family of three or more with $74,400 may qualify. For individuals and families, the resource limit is about $25,000. If you are not qualified for AHIP but think you can qualify for APIC program, call Client Advocacy Helpline at 212/367-1125 from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m. weekdays.
 
Unlike Medicaid, AHIP does not count assets in determining eligibility. However, AHIP examines the income generated by the assets of the applicant. When determining eligibility, the income of the applicant’s assets is added to his or her monthly income.
 
Applicants should show proofs for eligibility. These include: birth certificate, naturalization certificate, green card or passport for proof of citizenship; SSI/SSD award letter, unemployment benefits statement or pay stub for proof of income; letter of diagnosis from doctor or M11Q form for medical documentation; and insurance premium or COBRA statement for verification of health insurance; and insurance card.
 
If diagnosed with AIDS or HIV, you should apply immediately or before your current health plan coverage ends. If you lose your health policy, AHIP will require you to purchase a new insurance.
 
To qualify, you must be able to complete the Medicaid application process. A relative or a friend can also apply for you and give you all your required AHIP documentation.
 

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08/05/2009

Many health insurers decline coverage for experimental medical treatments simply because there is not enough evidence of success to warrant deeming them medically necessary.  Because these treatments and medications cannot be established as effective for a large group of patients, the cost of covering them is not justifiable.  Yet for many patients, these investigative treatments and cutting-edge medications represent real hope for improved health.  If you have been denied coverage by your health insurer, request a written statement of exactly why your desired treatment has been rejected.  This will give you a starting point for working with your company and your doctors to get coverage for the treatment you seek.
When seeking experimental or investigative treatment, you are your own best advocate.  The first step is to establish that the treatment is indeed medically necessary in your particular case.  To do this, gather evidence to support positive outcomes resulting from the procedure or medication.  It is important to collect scientific or anecdotal support explaining that the treatment has been effective for others with your condition. However, it is more important to establish that you have personally exhausted all other options.  If you can show that traditional treatments or medications have not worked for you or have ceased working, this can go a long way to convincing your health insurance carrier to consider alternatives.  Furthermore, if you have been able to pay for your desired experimental treatment out of pocket or have participated in a clinical trial and have had positive results, showing documented proof of this can lend further credence to your case.
Educate yourself in the terms and language of your health insurance policy.  Read your policy carefully to determine how your insurer defines experimental treatment.  If the terms of your policy are vague, this ambiguity can work in your favor.  Your particular therapy may not be categorized as experimental, even if your claim has been denied.  If your health plan includes coverage for prescription medications, find out if your state has laws regulating off-label uses of approved drugs.  In many states, health insurance providers who offer prescription drug coverage are required to pay for any and all uses of the medications included in their plans, even if the treatments are non-traditional and as long as those uses can be proven to be effective or are supported by the scientific literature.
As a last resort, plead your case in terms of economic common sense.  Would it be more cost efficient for your insurer to pay for experimental treatment or a traditional course of therapy?  Could the investigational treatment be cheaper than not treating your condition at all?  Will the experimental treatment prevent a more serious, and potentially more expensive, condition from developing?  Work with your primary-care physician or specialist to determine the answers to these questions and take them to your insurer for consideration.
When you want experimental or investigational treatment for a medical condition, it is important to educate yourself, advocate for your health and work with trusted healthcare providers to help you get the coverage you need.

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08/05/2009

Mental health refers to how we feel, think, and act while coping with life. It also determines the way we handle stress, make choices, and how we relate to others. Everyone gets anxious, sad or worried sometimes. But, people with a mental disorder find it hard to control these feelings, and often these feelings interfere with their daily lives.  Fortunately, these disorders—schizophrenia, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder and many others—can often be treated. Therapy and medicines can improve the lives of those with mental disorders.
In the U.S., having a mental illness is very common; one in five families has a member with a mental illness. And, with the rising number of people with these disorders, getting mental health insurance has quickly become a hard-fought issue.  As of 2003, many states have passed laws that require insurers to offer mental health coverage, although a few may offer minimal coverage. Some states also have laws that regulate insurance parity to ensure that mental health coverage is as strong as physical health coverage. Lawmakers are still working on the national bill to improve health parity, hoping to regulate the mental health coverage offerings of insurance companies.
So, what are the necessary benefits one must be aware of in getting mental health insurance?  Until now, many mental health plans offer policy holders a limited amount of doctor visits and the deductible amount. But, before shopping for mental health insurance, it is best to first check the state laws to know what your rights are. In most cases, the coverage for mental illnesses requires a higher deductible and co-payments compared with the physical health insurance. If this is the case, try looking for cheaper options. If you have other insurance provided by your employer, an MSA, or a medical savings account may be the best choice for you.
People working for small businesses, with 50 or less workers, can access an MSA.  An MSA is also available to self-employed individuals, provided they have a high-deductible health plan.
Medical savings accounts can be used in mental health treatments along with your high-deductible health insurance plan, provided that it is your only health insurance. You may pay as much as $1,600 or more annually for every individual, and as much as $3,200 per family.  MSA can be used in paying your health care costs, provided that you are not in between jobs and do not have an income. The amounts you deposit into your MSA are tax-exempt, and you can also claim the amount you didn’t spend.
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is also another option for mental health coverage. An FSA works the same as an MSA except that these can be used even without a high-deductible insurance plan.  Workers whose employers offer a high-deductible plan are qualified to get an FSA. The disadvantage of this option, however, is that unused money cannot be withdrawn for non-medical expenses.
As the number of people diagnosed with mental illness increases, the need for mental health plans also increases. It is necessary to stay informed of new laws and health insurance company policies. 

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08/05/2009

About 50 million Americans are without health insurance.

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08/05/2009

Although California ranks second in terms of the highest number of uninsured children in the U.S., California is still one of the top states in the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality list. It offers exceptional home health care and pain management quality.
 
Individual Health Insurance policies in California have different rules. One can be denied from getting health insurance because of pre-existing conditions, unless he or she is eligible for HIPAA. HIPAA eligible individuals cannot be denied individual health insurance and cannot be provided with pre-existing condition exclusion periods. They also do not have limitations on their health care insurance costs.
 
According to the California Department of Insurance, people with individual or group insurance that have no breaks in coverage for more than two months, must receive credible coverage from the new insurance company for their previous health insurance. Moreover, in California, individual health insurance cannot be cancelled if the policy holder gets sick. 
 
California also offers the Major Risk Medical Insurance Program that covers individuals for 36 months, who cannot afford individual health insurance policies because of a pre-existing health condition. But, after the given period, individuals who accessed the Major Risk Medical Insurance Program will be guaranteed an individual health insurance policy. This health insurance must cover all the policy holder’s medical needs for their pre-existing health condition, but with limits on their treatment costs.
 
The state also offers the Medi-Cal program to assist those with limited income.  Moreover, families with children who are 18-years-old or younger and who do not have health insurance may also purchase health insurance policies through the state’s Healthy Families insurance program. Eligible middle-income mothers and infants can also access affordable health plans through Access for Infants and Mothers.
 
Moreover, individuals, even those with a pre-existing health problem who apply for a group health insurance plan, cannot be denied. This means that if you change jobs, you cannot be denied group health insurance at your new job. You will also not be charged any extra fees, as long as you meet certain requirements.
 
In addition, small businesses with a small group of employees cannot be turned down by insurance companies.  But, if one in the group has a disease or has pre-existing condition, the insurer may charge a higher premium for the health coverage of the group. Small businesses with two to 50 employees or any business of any size may also purchase cheaper health plans through a statewide alliance or trade association.  The California Department of Insurance has the list of associations one may join for the purpose of purchasing cheaper health plans.
Pregnant women, who had group insurance for three months and suddenly lose it for certain reasons, may also get health coverage through some state programs.
Self-employed individuals in California cannot enjoy the health benefits provided by group health insurance, although they are allowed to join certain associations that may assist them in paying for health coverage.
 

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08/05/2009


Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the major disease that affects many men in the United States. Erectile dysfunction and difficulty in urination are the symptoms of prostate cancer.
 
One of the most important risk factors that concern the development of the disease is age. Research show 70 percent of those diagnosed with prostate cancer are 65 years old and above. Research from the American Cancer Society also reveals that most of those diagnosed with this disease are African-American men. Genetic factors are also considered a risk factor. The number of relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer may correlate with one’s chance of developing the disease.
 
Health Insurance’s role in detection of Prostate Cancer
 
Since prostate cancer has affected hundreds of thousands of Americans, many researches have been done on prostate cancer. These researches reveal that men covered by health insurance are less likely to die from this disease. But this does not mean that men with health policies do not develop prostate cancer. The difference is just that these insured men diagnosed with prostate cancer have access to medical care, had examinations that detect the disease early, and had early treatments.
 
When purchasing a health insurance plan, make sure that the policy you are getting offers prostate cancer preventive care, and options for prostate cancer treatment.
 
Studies show that men over 50 years old, those whose family has a history of prostate cancer, and those who are considered “high risk” are advised to have an annual exam to detect prostate cancer. Detection of prostate cancer at an early stage enables one to have early treatments to prevent the spread of cancer. Preventive detection examinations for prostate cancer are: digital rectal exam and blood test called prostate specific antigen testing. Many insurance companies offer policies covering these preventive exams. Moreover, many states also require insurers to provide coverage on prostate cancer treatments.
 
Talking to a health care professional may help you see whether your health care policy offers coverage for preventative exams on prostate cancer. If it does not, it helps to purchase a health plan that does.
 
Treating Prostate Cancer
 
There are two popular ways in treating prostate cancer: radiation therapy and surgery. Many health insurance plans cover both; if not, however, at least to some degree. Coverage differs depending on the plan, thus, if purchasing a new health plan, make sure to talk to a health insurance representative to understand the coverage of your plan and the payments.
 
If undetected, prostate cancer is a threat to your health. Since early detection and preventive care is a life saver when it comes to any disease, a comprehensive health insurance plan is indeed necessary.
 
Insurance companies offer many options. Even if you already have the traditional health care plan through PPO or HMO, it may be of help for you to explore the benefits you can get from new health care options, including the High Deductible Health Plan. This plan, along with Health Savings Account or a Health Reimbursement Arrangement, offers a traditional medical coverage that is tax free. This helps saving funds for future medical expenses. Like any health plan, getting this type of plan also has advantages and disadvantages. Thus, talking to a health care professional before purchasing one is necessary.
 

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08/05/2009

In the U.S., breast cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death in women, second only to lung cancer. The percentage of breast cancer occurrences is high, with one in every eight women suffering from the disease. However, only one in 28 breast cancer patients die from it. Because breast cancer, like any other type of cancer, is one of the most costly diseases that require frequent treatments, having a solid health insurance plan helps you access the medical care necessary for overcoming this disease. Solid health insurance provides a better chance of fighting breast cancer, with access to treatments and early detection exams.
Breast cancer results from an uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast. These abnormal cells may also spread to nearby tissues and organs. The growths the cells form are called tumors.  Tumors can be benign or malignant. While benign tumors do not spread and are harmless, malignant ones invade nearby organs.
Both men and women can have breast cancer. Breast cancer may be cured if detected at an early stage. The best way to detect this disease early is through mammograms and breast exams. Women below 40 years old are advised to have a mammogram every three years, while women who are 40 years old and above should have this type of exam every year. Although breast cancer can be prevented, some uncontrollable risk factors may cause the development of the disease. The most important risk factor is having a family history of breast cancer or any type of cancer. Some lifestyle-related factors including not breastfeeding and having children at the risk age (30 years old) or beyond may also trigger the development of the disease.
Since breast cancer is a disease that affects many women, it is necessary for women to make sure that their health plan covers mammograms and other medical treatments and exams that may be necessary if diagnosed with breast cancer. Make sure that you purchase the right policy—one which covers chemotherapy, breast cancer reconstructive procedures, mastectomy, and doctor appointments.  By law, if a woman’s policy includes coverage of a mastectomy, it must also provide coverage for reconstructive surgery as well.
Insurance for Breast Cancer Patients
Individuals with cancer, whether it be breast or lungs, are considered “high risk” to health insurance providers. With different and more comprehensive medical needs, one insurance option for breast cancer patients is the high risk insurance, which is almost the same as individual health insurance, but generally covers comprehensive medical plans with a wide range of deductible options. A Preferred Provider Organization plan is the most common coverage option for “high risk” individuals.  The Health Maintenance Organization plans are also available in many states.
Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act
Signed into law in 1998, the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act was designed to assist breast cancer patients who, after a mastectomy, choose to have reconstructive surgery.
Under this law, HMOs and other insurance providers that provide coverage for mastectomy procedures must also cover breast reconstructive surgery after the mastectomy.  Breast reconstruction includes the reconstruction or augmentation of the affected breast to provide a similar appearance with the other breast, breast prosthesis, and treatment or therapy for complications that may arise after surgery. 

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08/05/2009


In the United States, a big portion of the immigrant population is uninsured. Approximately 50% of the non-citizens do not have health insurance. Purchasing a health policy can be difficult for immigrants, considering the fact that most of immigrants do not have high-paying jobs or work that provide them with health insurance packages. There are a few choices for immigrants to have access to cheaper health care. But it is necessary to take note that immigrants may not be eligible for health care programs administered by the government.
 
Though Medicaid helps assist people with low income, many uninsured non-citizens with low income are still not qualified for Medicaid in some cases due to some restrictions. The Personal and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) restricts legal immigrants from getting health benefits like Medicaid. Under this law, non-citizens who are living in the United States for not more than five years are not qualified for federal health care programs. Even after five years of stay, they can still be ineligible for these programs if they do not meet the income requirement. Immigrants who are undocumented are also not eligible for Medicaid.
 
Moreover, children immigrants cannot avail themselves of the health care benefits the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) offers. In the same case with Medicaid, PROWRA restricts immigrants from getting SCHIP benefits in the first five years of their stay in the US. They may still not qualify for the SCHIP for an extended period because of economic factors.
 
Because of these restrictions, it is easier for immigrants to purchase private health insurance only if they have sufficient income. Immigrants with higher income may find private health plan the best option if their employer does not provide them with health insurance benefits.
 
So, what are the options for immigrants?
 
Legal immigrants in the US can choose to buy group plans to save money. Group plans use some medical networks such as Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and the new Health Savings Accounts (HSA).
 
When choosing an HMO, you need to live in close proximity to where you are required to visit your primary care physician. An HMO plan is usually less expensive. Similarly, the PPOs and POSs use a medical network but offer a wider geographic area. Although PPO and POS encourage you to use health care within the network, with these plans, you may also be allowed to use out-of-network physicians. PPO and POS plans, however, are slightly expensive than HMO plans.
The Health Savings Accounts work similarly but it only requires a high deductible health plan and charges lower premiums. The money you saved with lower monthly payments is deposited into your Health Savings Account which you can use for your medical fees. For more information about the possible health plans you can get, talk to health care experts.
 
It is very important for all residents in the US, whether born there or immigrated, to have the means to pay for health care. In this country where health care costs are soaring at an alarming rate, getting a solid or comprehensive health plan helps a lot in reducing the burden of these costs.

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08/05/2009

Medical care costs can be quite daunting. That is why there is health insurance, to help you alleviate any pain or sickness you might have without breaking the bank. Health insurance policies are available in most companies. Generally, employees acquire this as soon as they become part of the company. Most employers avail their employees with health insurance policies, which are often structured as a managed care plan. These plans benefit employees with health care treatment and medical facilities at low costs.
 
Health insurance policies can also be acquired through the government, like Medicare and Medicaid. If you are able to meet the requirements of the government, these policies can be made available to you.
 
For further understanding about health insurance policies here are a few details:
 
What health insurance covers
 
A health insurance policy is a written agreement between the insurance company and you, in which you can access certain benefits, such as drugs, tests and treatment services. The insurance company agrees to handle the cost of certain benefits that are in your policy. These are called "covered services."
 
The insurance company also lists in your policy the forms of services that are not available to you. In an event that you suffer from a sickness or accident that is not covered by your policy you have to pay for the medical care that you acquire.
 
What a medical necessity is
 
A medical necessity is different from a medical benefit. A medical necessity is what a doctor will deem as necessary. A medical benefit is something covered in your insurance policy. There might be incidents that your doctor might decide that you require medical care that is not available in your insurance policy.
 
The insurance company will decide what drugs, services or tests they will avail to you. They base this on what kind of medical care each patient needs. This might mean that the drug, test or service that you require is not available in your policy.
 
What you should do
 
You should ask your doctor to study your insurance coverage carefully so that he/she can give you the treatment that is most appropriate for your coverage. Since there are so many insurance plans it is wise to study the details of each plan. When you have studied your insurance policy, you can help your doctor by suggesting medical care that is appropriated to your plan. Here are a few tips to better understand your policy:
Read and learn your insurance policy. It's wiser to know what your insurance company will pay for before you get tested, receive a service or fill a prescription. Your insurance company will have to approve the kind of care that you need before your doctor can give it to you. Forward your queries to your insurance company and ask a representative to clarify it with you. Always be mindful that your insurance company, not your doctor, decides what will be paid and what will not.

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08/05/2009

Today’s economic downturn has affected many aspects of people’s lives. Even purchasing a healthcare insurance plan became troublesome when it comes to finding the best plan at an affordable price. But despite this dilemma there are still ways for you to purchase a health insurance policy that will cover your basic needs at no burdensome cost. Here are a few ways to acquire the health plan:
 
Exhaust all options in your employer plan
 
If you acquired your insurance policy through your employer, study your coverage yearly when your company offers open enrollment.
 
Explore your options with your policy. Find out what it doesn’t cover and what it does. Determine what kind of service or treatment it offers and see if you can add more to it without breaking the bank. Study your deductibles, co-payments, lifetime maximum benefits, limits on out-of-pocket expenses and lifetime maximum benefits and prescription coverage.
Determine if your medical needs have altered. A plan with a lower co-payment but a higher premium is more advisable for people with health problems.
You can pay for health-care expenses with your own money by using a flexible spending account with pretax dollars, which means that the US government will pay for a third of the tab.
You can adjust the price of your premium through employee incentives, like quitting smoking, losing weight and exercising regularly. People with a healthy lifestyle have lower premiums.  
Less costly ways to purchase a health insurance plan
 
The health savings account is another way to pay for medical expenses from your own pocket. You can get an HSA through an employer if you purchase a high-deductible health insurance.
 
$2,900 is the maximum contribution of the HAS to individuals, while $5,800 is for adults. Your contribution is either deductible or pretax, even if it’s not itemized, and withdrawals and earnings for medical expenses are tax-free.
In this plan your money is invested, and what you don't spend will move over to the following year. If you change jobs you can take the account with you.
Use HealthDecisions.org, eHealthInsurance.com or HSA Insider to look for insurance that qualifies as highly deductible under IRS regulations.
The maximum age to make contributions is 65; afterwards taxable withdrawals for any purpose are permitted.  
For those who have a hard time coursing through the economic slump
 
Do not let insurance coverage lapse if you’re between jobs. If you’ve neglected to attend to your insurance policy and you’ve been without coverage for 63 days some provisions of the federal law will not apply to your policy.
 
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, COBRA, of 1985, permits you to retain group coverage after the end of your job, for 18 months, but you will pay the entire premium. You should know about your rights under the state and federal law.
 
You can keep on contributing to your flex account under COBRA, giving you more chance to use the money.
You can use your HSA to pay COBRA or other health insurance premiums if you're receiving unemployment compensation.
Under certain circumstances, you can make penalty-free withdrawals from an IRA to pay premiums if you're unemployed.  

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08/05/2009

When choosing a health insurance plan it is important to honestly assess your current health, your risk factors for future conditions, and your budget.  Plans vary in terms of services covered and cost, but remember that the cheapest premium or the greatest number of covered benefits does not always mean the best value.  Obviously, the goal is to choose the plan that will cover the services you need at an out-of-pocket price you can afford.  This is what determines the best insurance value for your money.
Every insurance plan will cover doctor and hospital bills, with varying limitations.  Virtually everything else—prescriptions, vision care, dental care, mental health treatment, preventative care—may or may not be covered depending on the plan.  It is important to make a list of the services you and your family regularly use.  Once you’ve made your list, note the benefits for each category as laid out by the plan you are researching. For example: prescriptions, 50 percent covered; pediatric care, 100 percent covered; eyeglasses, not covered; etc.  This will help you identify healthcare plans based on the services you actually need and use, and will help you determine how comprehensively each plan will meet your particular needs. 
In this tight economy, we are all concerned about the bottom line.  If you are in good health and do not use any medical services, your out-of-pocket costs will be limited to your monthly premium.  If you regularly use several medical services, your actual out-of-pocket expenses may be hard to gauge since you will have to factor in deductibles, co-pays, excess charges, and payment for treatments that are not covered.  The cost for joining a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is fairly easy to estimate as patient fees are fixed and nearly everything is covered once the premium has been paid; so long as services are rendered by an approved network provider.  For other types of medical insurance, doing an accurate cost evaluation can be more difficult because out-of-pocket expenses are based on whether you seek care within the organization’s network or choose an outside provider or treatment facility. 
Many insurance plans limit patients’ choice of providers to a list of approved doctors and specialists.  Some plans require patients to seek approval before getting treatment or using services.  If you have special needs or are already established with a trusted physician who does not participate in your new plan, you may want to reconsider changing your insurance. You will have to pay more out of pocket—sometimes even the total cost of care—if you want to continue to see your own doctor.  Financial inhibitors linked to policy restrictions include higher out-of-pocket fees like co-payments, deductibles, and increased patient responsibility for services not covered by the plan. 
Before you make a decision about medical insurance, be sure to educate yourself about all the benefits, costs, and restrictions of a particular plan to help you determine the best value for you and your family.
 

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08/05/2009

The high price of health insurance can be intimidating, deterring many people from taking on the additional expense, especially during these difficult financial times.  However, even a minor motor-vehicle accident resulting in injuries can run up expenses that may seriously drain personal savings.  In the long run, not having any medical coverage can cost much more than paying a monthly health insurance premium.
According to a 2008 survey conducted by the Kaiser Foundation, the average cost of employer-sponsored health insurance for an individual was about $4,700 per year; the cost for a family of four was just over $17,700.  For those who do not have the benefit of a health plan through an employer or spouse’s job, the cost of purchasing an independent individual or family plan can be considerably higher.  If you are thinking about buying health coverage on your own, use these figures as a baseline for your own research.
When it comes time to comparing plans and prices, be sure to keep in mind the factors that may affect your final premium.  These include age, gender, health history, location and the type of plan you select.  Because older people typically require more medical treatments and preventative care, most health insurance plan premiums jump significantly for consumers over the age of 50.  Females can expect to pay more for health insurance, though the exact reasons for this are unclear.  A history of good health translates into lower premiums, while some pre-existing conditions could exclude you from coverage altogether.  Prices for health plans vary from state to state, so your residency could also have an impact on how much you will pay for coverage. 
When you begin your search, check the Internet for online health insurance quotes.  Your initial quote will take into account only your most basic information:  your age, gender and state of residence.  This figure is meant as a starting point only and may not give you a comprehensive picture of your final cost.  Once you have made a decision about the kind of plan that best suits your needs, you will complete an application and receive a more accurate final quote.  The application will likely include detailed questions about your health history and any pre-existing medical conditions; some health plans may even require a doctor’s physical examination or basic medical tests.  The number generated by this second quote will be much more representative of what you can expect your monthly premium to be.
Of course, if you prefer not to go it alone when purchasing health insurance, you can always turn to a reputable broker.  These insurance experts will have expert knowledge of the market in your particular area, as well as personal relationships with several insurers that will help you make a truly informed decision.  You can also visit your state’s insurance department website for more information about the rules and regulations specific to your location, or to explore state-sponsored healthcare plans you may qualify for. 
 
 

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08/05/2009

Short term health insurance, sometimes called major medical coverage, is a category of health plans offered by private insurance companies that protect otherwise healthy people from the possibility of a serious health crisis that could cause severe financial hardship.  Short term insurance is meant to be just that—temporary—and can be a viable option for people in transition.
Most short term policies can only be purchased for a specific, predetermined period of time, usually up to six months.  Some companies do offer policies with longer terms, though, some up to a year or more.  Coverage ranges, but is generally focused on treatment in the event of a significant accident or injury.  Plans that offer more comprehensive coverage are generally much more expensive than catastrophic plans, making them a less popular option for many customers. 
Short term medical insurance policies often have very strict qualifying standards and usually do not cover pre-existing medical conditions.  These types of temporary polices are not a good fit for patients who require extensive or long-term care for an illness or injury, or for those who are looking for a policy that encompasses a variety of services.  Short term policies generally do not cover things like mammograms, physicals, immunizations, pregnancy or childbirth, dental, or vision care.  All plans also clearly exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, defined as an injury or illness that has been diagnosed or treated within the previous three to five years.  Purchasing a short term plan also negates a patient’s eligibility for participation in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).  HIPAA plans cover treatment for pre-existing medical conditions that would make it difficult for patients to find other kinds of health insurance.  Patients who qualify for HIPAA should not consider short term medical insurance.
While short term medical insurance is not meant to be a lasting solution to health coverage needs, it can be a smart choice for many people.  This type of coverage is best suited to those between jobs, those waiting for insurance from another source such as a new job or spouse’s plan, for early retirees who are not yet eligible to enroll in Medicare, and for recent college graduates, discharged military personnel, or the recently divorced.  The application process is relatively simple and involves a few basic questions about medical history; coverage usually begins immediately, sometimes within 24 hours of application approval.  Most plans offer flexible payment options with a wide range of premiums and deductibles to choose from.  Policy holders typically have the freedom to choose their own doctors and hospitals without restriction, though sometimes financial incentives are offered—in the form of lower co-pays and fewer out of pocket expenses—for seeking treatment with network providers. 
Certainly, short term or major medical policies are not for everyone.  Yet for already healthy people looking for an affordable safety net to protect their assets in the event of a catastrophic injury or illness these plans are an excellent fit.

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08/05/2009

PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS:  Some health insurance plans require patients to use only those doctors included in a limited network of providers and you’ll have to pay more of your own money to see someone outside the network.  If you must choose a new doctor, research credentials and background information through the American Medical Association website.
SPECIALISTS:  If you have an existing condition you are currently being treated for or anticipate you will need specialized care in the future, find out how the plans you are considering deal with this.  Some insurers require a referral from a primary care doctor in order to approve specialized treatment, while other plans let you choose your own specialists as you see fit.  You should also find out if your plan requires specialists to be part of a network of approved providers.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS:  Health plans vary in coverage for pre-existing conditions—some cover them 100 percent, some exclude them totally, some fall in the middle.  The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guarantees coverage for existing medical conditions if you are forced to join a new plan through an employer or if you were insured for at least 12 consecutive months by another carrier, regardless of your current health status.
EMERGENCY CARE AND HOSPITAL STAYS:  Find out what treatment facilities are covered by your plan.  You should also find out how your plan defines an emergency medical situation.  Some insurance plans set restrictions on urgent care, and some require patients to contact their primary care provider before seeking emergency treatment.
PREVENTATIVE CARE:  Will your plan cover things like yearly physicals and health screenings?  If you have dependent children you will need to know if the plan pays for things like well-baby visits and immunizations.
PRESCRIPTIONS:  If you currently take prescription medications, or think you might someday need them, consider plans with good prescription drug coverage already built in.  Find out which prescriptions are covered, whether you have the freedom to choose generic or name brand drugs, and what costs you will incur out of pocket for your medications.
OBSTETRIC AND GYNECOLOGICAL CARE:  For women, you will want to find out if your plan covers routine gynecological care.  If you are thinking about having children, find out if your plan covers fertility treatments, prenatal care, and labor and delivery costs.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES:  Some patients may also be interested in seeking coverage for things like substance abuse, mental health, home health services, hospice, experimental medicine, and alternative or homeopathic treatments.  If any of these areas are of interest to you, be sure to research plans that offer the type of coverage you want.
COST:  Be certain you understand a plan’s fee structure, premiums, deductibles, co-pays, coinsurance, and lifetime maximums before you make a decision.
EXCLUSIONS, RESTRICTIONS, LIMITATIONS:  Now that you have educated yourself about what your plan will pay for, make sure you ask about anything that will not be covered.  These exclusions and restrictions can run up high out-of-pocket expenses quickly if you are caught off-guard.
 

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08/05/2009

Due to the current economic state of the world, hundreds of people are being laid-off. In addition to that, some employers are reducing or eliminating health benefits, which lead to several people having no health insurance policy. In order to survive these trying times, here are a few tips on how to keep your health insurance policy:
 
1. In the event that you get laid off, use COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation). COBRA gives you the opportunity to keep your health plan for 18 months even when you have lost your employer health coverage. As long as your health plan is still in existence COBRA can let you use it. You can qualify for some health insurance that your employer is offering if his/her business is still operating. Despite it being expensive COBRA is much cheaper than individual or private health insurance plans.
 
2. Living healthily will definitely aid you in times of economic struggle. By living healthily you have a better chance of avoiding sickness and therefore not having to use your health insurance policy.
 
3. Consult your doctor about discounted fees or certain treatments and drugs that are more affordable.
 
4. Try to live with lesser stress. Stress is one of the major killers and you shouldn’t take this lightly. A stress-free life means lesser trips to the doctor and lesser chances of using that health insurance policy. So exercise regularly, sleep early and avoid stressful situations. Also try getting into yoga and other activities that help the body relieve stress and promote well-being.
 
5. Quit smoking. Smoking has always been harmful to your body and it doesn’t take a genius to know that once you stop smoking the better you will feel. Also, by not smoking you are more likely to be approved for another health insurance policy/plan. Insurance companies deem non-smokers as more risk-free so they give them lower premiums.
 
6. File an application for Medicaid.
 
7. Get a Medicare plan, which caters to those who are 65 years of age or older, and qualify for a certain requirement.
 
8. Seek alternative medical treatments, such as herbal remedies and acupuncture.
 
9. If your spouse or partner has a health insurance plan, you can use that to your advantage by applying as a dependent. The cost might be expensive but at least this will result to lesser coverage rejections compared to applying for independent or private health insurance policies.
 
10. Apply for a lower paying job because more often than not these companies have a better health insurance. Health is very important and as our economy is struggling it is much wiser to opt for a job with lower pay but better health plans, than take a high-paying job with minimal medical benefits.
 

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08/05/2009

Many individuals with serious medical conditions like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, heart and kidney disease, depression, or a history of heart attacks, are ineligible for or cannot afford health insurance to help them pay for the essential medical care they need.  If you have a pre-existing condition, there are options for affordable insurance that will cover your medical needs.  You just have to be creative and educate yourself.
Most of the plans that do provide coverage for pre-existing conditions have extremely high premiums and very limited coverage.  Although this is certainly not an ideal scenario for someone with a serious medical condition, it is usually a much better alternative to going without coverage altogether.  If you manage to find a company that will insure you despite your health issues, take the coverage until you can find something better.
The first place to search is within an employer-sponsored group plan, professional organization or trade union coverage, or private individual health insurance.  Some states have laws meant to protect people with pre-existing conditions who are forced to change insurance plans because of a new job.  If none of these is an option for you, though, there are still other avenues to explore.
State risk pools are allowed in some states and protect people with serious medical conditions.  These programs give access to either private insurance or special health plans for the uninsurable, and provide access to comprehensive private plans.  The premiums for these policies can be very high — sometimes twice as much as the cost of private insurance for a healthy person — and enrollment is often limited to certain times of the year, or requires placement on a long waiting list.  These risk pools are generally a last resort for people who need care for a medical condition, are currently paying astronomical fees for insurance, or cannot find an insurer at all.  Certain conditions and requirements are usually mandated for enrollment into these pools. Your state’s Insurance Department website will have more information.
Guaranteed-issue insurance for the uninsurable and for those with pre-existing conditions that exclude them from eligibility in a quality health plan -- also called “mini-meds” -- are not discount health card plans.  Guaranteed-issue plans are usually quite affordable, and coverage is often surprisingly good.  Most plans cover pre-existing conditions after one year.  These types of plans are not intended to be used as comprehensive insurance; they will only pay in limited scope for things like doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, and emergency care.  Most guaranteed-issue plans require a medical questionnaire or physical to qualify.
Medical discount cards are not insurance, but offer reduced rates on many services and procedures.  Yearly membership is generally required and some plans have deductibles as well.  Research discount card programs carefully before making a decision as many of these organizations have been known to front scams or never deliver as much as they have promised.
If you have been turned down for individual health insurance because of a medical condition, continue to explore other avenues for care before you give up on getting the protection you need.

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08/05/2009

A report from “The Orlando Sentinel” stated that experts are worried about the fact that more young workers in Florida are working without health insurance coverage because of tight budgets.
 
The young employees, who consist of about 25% of the uninsured in the state, could possibly have many problems in the future.
 
According to the report, "Of the 2.4 million Floridians in that age group, an estimated 915,000 are uninsured, according to U.S. census data. And a national study released Thursday by the private research group Commonwealth Fund pegged the number of uninsured young adults in 2007 at 13.2 million - up from 11 million in 2000. That the youngest segment of the adult population is forgoing regular doctor visits and delaying urgent medical care for lack of insurance worries health experts, who say if the trend persists it could mean a sicker country in the future."
 
The young workers, who usually pay for their own treatments in emergency rooms or in clinics, are actually paying for the medical expenses of older or chronic users of the medical insurance system, according to the “Sentinel” article. However, the health insurance reform bill that is being discussed in the Congress could improve the current situation of the young laborers.
 
The report added, "Under the reform bills in Congress, Medicaid would be expanded to include childless adults who have incomes less than 133 percent of the federal poverty level - or about $14,400 a year; children could remain dependents until age 26; premiums would be capped; and insurers wouldn't be able to exclude people or charge more if they have pre-existing conditions such as asthma or diabetes".
 

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08/05/2009

As a way to lower costs, more and more families are opting not to avail themselves of family medical insurance. According to reports, an estimated 50 million Americans have no coverage, and therefore are not protected against possible financial woes in the future, which could lead to bankruptcy. That’s why financial experts are advising families to seek family health insurance policies.
 
When it comes to cost-cutting, families can always find alternative measures instead of dropping medical insurance plans. Many affordable medical plans in the market are suitable for different budgets. Families can seek help from insurance experts when it comes to figuring out confusing insurance language, to help them decide on the plans that will perfectly suit their needs and budget.
 
A good look at available family medical insurance policies can help families make informed decisions. Families can choose from a variety of available policies, from the basic to catastrophic to comprehensive insurance plans.
 
For starters, families should look back at their own medical histories, and the medical services they’ve sought during the previous five years; this will give them an idea of the kind of coverage they may need in the future and what they should be looking to buy.
 
Client Services Director Tom Carolan of BestHealthcareRates.com explains, “Finding the right family medical insurance coverage can be both confusing and overwhelming, but it is a vital part of protecting your family’s future.”
 
“We enjoy walking families through the process of selecting a plan that can give them solid coverage at the price they need, which is why we offer one-on-one consultations for each and every new customer,” he added.

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08/05/2009

Years ago, the kinds of health insurance plans available were very limited. Today, there are a lot to choose from. It is not always easy to choose the perfect health insurance plan, so it is very important to know your needs. You can choose from either a managed care plan or an indemnity plan. As both have unique benefits, you must decide what is best for you and your family.
 
Indemnity plans offer a lot of benefits. One of these is being able to choose any doctor you want. Normally, an indemnity plan will pay a percentage of your expenses. It usually does not cover services such as preventive exams. A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) is another kind of health insurance that is similar to indemnity health plans. Going to a doctor that is within the PPO’s system will get you discounts.
 
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) health insurance plans are also available. Through these health plans, you pay a monthly fee to receive health care benefits. Also, you must go to a doctor that is within the plan’s system or else your care will not be paid for. A number of HMO’s may also require co-payments for visiting a doctor.
 
You may find it difficult to choose a health plan because of the wide variety that is currently available. What you must keep in mind is that your health needs must be met by your health insurance plan at a reasonable price. It is very important for you to find a health plan that will answer your family’s specific needs. And, of course, it must also be within your budget.

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08/05/2009

Getting a health insurance policy will protect you from the expensive costs of health care. However, having a health insurance policy is not just protection from these costs; it can also be protection from serious illnesses.
 
Health insurance costs have been rising partly because of the advancements in health care. Modern medical technology has given us more options for treatment. Many illnesses that were difficult to cure before can be effectively treated by doctors today. However, getting these treatments is expensive. This is where your individual health insurance policy comes in.
 
You don’t have to worry about treatment expenses, including anything from a diagnostic test to specific forms of treatment, when you have a health insurance policy. You are also not limited by the amount of money you have available. This is why it is so important to have a comprehensive health insurance policy.
 
With a health insurance policy, it is also easier to maintain your health. Many policies focus on preventative care, not only coverage for catastrophic and emergency health situations. Preventive care can help you avoid more serious medical conditions.
 
Purchasing a health insurance policy is just like making any other significant purchase. You need to take the time to assess the details of each policy. Also, you need to consider the expenses that you will incur when you decide to get a specific health plan. Taking these steps will ensure that you get a health plan that is right for you.
 
It is a very wise decision to invest in a health insurance policy. Not only will you enjoy the medical benefits, but you will have the security of knowing that a policy is there to cover you in case something unexpected happens.

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08/05/2009

Because there are many health insurance companies that you can choose from, it can be challenging to find the health insurance that best suits you. First find out what type of coverage will meet your needs. After figuring this out, start looking at companies that offer that type of coverage and start comparing their rates. An online quote for health insurance can be obtained from numerous sites on the internet. When you do go to the internet for an online health insurance quote, make sure to fill the forms out correctly.
 
Another way to get a health insurance quote is to talk to an insurance agent. An agent will help you with your decision and with finding the right plan for you. They can present several plans from different companies. After that, you can easily compare the features of each plan. This will save you the difficult task of talking to people from many different companies about health insurance quotes.
 
If talking with an insurance agent is not what you have in mind, you can visit websites that will allow you to review insurance plans. These websites can also give you quotes. Some websites may ask for your personal information. They use this to provide you with health insurance quotes from a variety of health insurance providers. This only takes a short while and you can comfortably compare the plans and rates on your computer.
 
It is very important to get several health insurance quotes and compare them. Doing so will help you choose the insurance plan that is perfect for your needs and budget.

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08/05/2009

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans, sometimes referred to as participating provider organization plans, are health care programs managed by an insurance company. Medical doctors, clinics and hospitals, and other health care providers are contracted by the insurance company to assist its insured members with their medical needs.
 
Under a PPO plan, the insured pays a fee at the time of every medical service. However, with this type of plan, a member is provided with a substantial discount by the professional partners of the insurance company.
 
Before the insurance company starts paying for the insured’s medical fees, the insurance company collects a yearly deductible. The company typically pays 80% of the insured’s medical cost for the in-network physician. The patient is responsible for the remaining cost not covered by the insurance company. The patient also has the option to request an out-of-network physician or medical service provider. The deductible for these services may be more expensive than PPO physicians and the insurance will cover less of the cost. In order for people with PPO plans to get cheaper rates, it is best if they use the doctors, hospitals, and other medical providers in their plan’s network.
 
PPO plans also provide prescription services at a discounted rate. PPO plans cover most health care services, and PPO premiums are lower than those for individual health insurance. Moreover, insured members have more health care options with PPOs, since they are part of a wide network of medical providers.

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08/05/2009

Free or discounted fees for doctors' visits and prescriptions are not the only things your health plan can offer. Today, many insurance companies also offer improved coverage for mental health conditions, disease management programs, infertility, and much more. Sometimes these benefits may not be well explained by your insurer.
 
Disease management programs are health programs designed to help health insurance plan members with chronic health conditions, such as asthma and diabetes. For diabetic members, your health plan may offer benefits, such as counseling sessions on proper diet, nurse consultations, and drug monitoring. However, because most insurance companies sell plans to employers, many workers are not aware that these benefits exist.
 
Your health insurance may also include coverage for those trying to conceive. Since the cost of reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), is very high, many insurers do not include such benefits in the package. However 14 states, including New Jersey and New York, have passed a bill requiring insurance companies to provide some level of coverage for infertility treatment. In most states, legislation includes IVF in the coverage.
 
For people who are diabetic and who need to lose weight, some insurance companies also reimburse a portion of a health club membership and other programs that promote weight loss to manage diabetes. For people with heart disease who are smoking, some health plans also offer support programs that may help them kick the bad habit.
 
You may also enjoy coverage for alternative medicines and therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. Today, a growing number of insurance companies now include such treatments in their health plans.
 
It is unlikely that your health plan is trumpeting information about state-mandated coverage. It is up to you to get the details.
 

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08/05/2009

Heath insurance for freelance writers and independent contractors can be very expensive. As a result, no matter how tempting the freelancer lifestyle may be, many people still stick to a nine-to-five job because of the employer subsidized health plans.
 
Finding a health plan for an independent worker requires some research. As when making any other major decision, a careful assessment of the options available is necessary.
 
There are several routes freelancers can take when getting a health plan. Joining a group, like a guild, may offer some affordable medical insurance options. Some states consider one individual who works independently as a “group”. This means that, in those states, independent workers may just be charged a group or discounted rate without the additional fees of joining a guild or group.
 
The Editorial Freelancer Association, for example, provides health plans to its members. Discount health plans and dental HMOs are also available to members. Some health insurance providers offer plans that are targeted to freelance writers for as low as $333 per month for each member. Other options include the National Association for the Self Employed, AvantGuild, and the Author’s Guild, all of which provide discounted insurance for published writers in selected states.
 
Another option for freelance writers is COBRA, a program run by the federal government. COBRA offers a subsidy to individuals who have just lost their jobs and who wish to continue the health plans subsidized by their previous employer. Should an editor or writer leave their full-time job and become a full-time freelancer, the COBRA subsidy may be a good option. COBRA offers 18-36 months of coverage, depending on various factors.

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08/05/2009

Many people consider buying long-term care (LTC) health insurance. However, there are a number of factors that need to be considered.
 
LTC coverage may not be affordable or necessary. Before purchasing LTC insurance, it is best to consider your family status. Incurring out-of-pocket costs for long-term care may be a financial risk worth considering, because this type of health plan may not be affordable. Ideal candidates for this type of coverage are those who can afford to pay high premiums, and can also handle increasing fees.
 
The affordability of LTC plans is also determined by your general financial picture. Your net worth is one reliable measure, but this should exclude your home and even your savings and the investments and pension you expect after you retire. People who have less than $500,000 in investments might also not be able to afford this type of coverage.
 
It is also necessary to calculate the insurance costs as a percentage of your calculated retirement income. You might not be able to afford the insurance plan if the premiums consume more than 10 percent of your income.
 
Individuals with investments worth $1 million, and couples with $1.5 million worth of investments, may be able to afford this coverage.
 
You may also consider your family health history. Although not a perfect predictor, many inherit their parents’ or grandparents' health patterns.
 
It is also wise to understand the features and disadvantages of long-term care policies. Although insurance of this type is aggressively sold, many people who purchase it do not understand what they are getting. Make the most of your hard-earned money. Know every aspect of the health plan you are interested in before purchasing.
 

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08/05/2009

Recently, there has been a steady increase in health insurance premiums. Many insurance options have been affected by this. However, you can choose options without the increased costs by planning and researching carefully.
 
As health insurance premiums are becoming more expensive, you will want to get the most out of what you pay. To do this, you must ensure that your health plans only meet your heath care needs. Everyone has different health care needs so it is possible that you might have chosen the wrong plan if you pay high premiums for a plan that covers options that you do not need. When this happens, it would be best to reassess your needs.
 
For a person who is generally healthy and who doesn’t visit the office of his health care provider that often, an individual health insurance plan that features a high deductible or a high co-payment could be the right choice. This is an example of spending your money wisely when it comes to insurance. It is important to make sure that you are only paying for the services that you need.
 
A health insurance plan that focuses on affordable medications would be advisable for those who have health conditions that need constant medication, such as asthma or allergies. It is vital that you figure out the health insurance options that matter to you. This will help you maximize your health insurance premiums.
 
Even though there has been a rise in health insurance premiums, it is still possible to not spend too much. You can do this by making wise choices, and by ensuring that the options you are paying for are what you really need. A little bit of research will help keep your expenses down.

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08/05/2009

Like accidents and calamities, a failing health condition is something that one does not wish to encounter. However, life does not always deal a fair hand and if one does encounter health problems and you need to be prepared. For those employed by companies, this may not be much of a concern, as companies have Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) for their employees. For the self-employed, whether voluntarily or not, individual health insurance is the option.
 
Individual health insurance is a health insurance type available to individuals, not to groups and organizations. Given the fast increase in the unemployment rate because of the current economic slump, many citizens seek cost-effective health insurance plans. The good news is that the variety and the affordability of the options available are rather pleasantly surprising, especially to those laid-off workers who seek an alternative to the costly Congressional Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) coverage. COBRA is a federal law which allows an 18-month extension of benefits to laid-off workers should they intend to continue buying the health coverage from their employer-sponsored plans within a defined period.
 
Applying for an individual health insurance is not without its drawbacks, however. In applying for an individual health insurance, one will typically be accepted if he or she is healthy and without any pre-existing medical condition. This, nevertheless, is to the advantage of an individual without any pre-existing medical condition, since individual policies are usually inexpensive.
 
Among the few organizations with data based on a national source is eHealthInsurance. The data of the organization best reflects purchasing patterns and prices in the individual health insurance market.

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08/05/2009

The loss of group health insurance may not be a question of whether or not it will happen, but of when it will happen. When it does, as in any other undesirable situation, one must know what to do. Otherwise lack of information might add insult to injury. While there may be instances when this scenario is inevitable, the good news is that there are a number of health insurance options to be explored in case of the loss of group health insurance.
 
Each year, many adults under the age of 65 lose their health insurance coverage for varying reasons. These reasons include the death of a spouse, divorce, retirement from a job before reaching the age of 65, a decrease in working hours, and, of course, separation from the job. If any of these causes a person to lose their group health insurance, there are steps to counter the problem.
 
A person who has just lost their insurance may opt to find out if they can get COBRA benefits. COBRA stands for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, a federal law enacted in 1985 that can help them keep their insurance longer. Furthermore, because of the new provisions added to the law, a person’s cost for this continuing coverage under COBRA may not be prohibitive.
 
A person who is changing jobs may want to know about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA. This provides protection of one’s right to have insurance when moving from one group plan to another, as well as from a group to an individual plan.

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07/28/2009

Expensive premium costs are the main reason being cited by millions of US citizens as to why they cannot avail themselves of individual health insurance policies, according to a recent study published in “Health Day News” last Tuesday.

Approximately three out four people want to buy a policy but are not able to get one because the cost of the premium is prohibitive, based on a report by the Commonwealth Fund, which is a foundation that financially supports an independent research on health insurance reform. Around 57 percent admitted that finding coverage they could afford is bordering on very hard to downright impossible.

A survey conducted for the report also cited that 47 percent of the respondents said that finding the plan with the coverage they needed was difficult or impossible. Another 36 percent stated that they were charged additional rates or their application was denied due to a pre-existing condition. Some companies had their condition excluded from their coverage altogether.

The report, called ‘Failure to Protect: Why the Individual Insurance Market is Not a Viable Option for Most US Families, compared the experiences of adults in the working-age bracket who have employer- and individual-based private health insurance.

In the report, it was also found that people who acquired health insurance individually pay more money on deductibles and premiums than those with group or business health care coverage.

Among US adults who have individual insurance, the survey showed that 64 percent spend more or less $3,000 on premiums annually, while only 20 percent of people who have employer-based insurance are spending that much.

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07/28/2009

Aetna expressed its support and concern for the welfare of college students in terms of health care. Head of Aetna Student Health Kate Begley said, “At Aetna, we work closely with campus health and counseling centers, as well as community and travel service providers, to offer students access to convenient care at an affordable price, no matter where they are located.”

Most parents find summer the ideal time to ensure the academic and financial preparedness of college students for life on campus. This is also the time when vital decisions are made. What is often overlooked, however, is student health insurance. Aetna encourages parents to view a student’s health insurance options as one of the important considerations when they prepare their children for college education.

Kate Begley further said that they “support the efforts of colleges and universities to ensure students have access to affordable, quality health care.” Aetna also gave tips to parents who are in the process of selecting a student health insurance plan. These tips include weighing the option of carrying a dependent on one’s plan against the benefits of a school plan; identifying a health-care contact on campus by reviewing the school’s website and visiting the campus health center; and understanding the health insurance requirements of the school.

"Choosing a student health insurance plan that is right for your child is a personal decision and one that should be examined carefully, particularly in today's uncertain economy," added Begley. "Evaluating the true cost, meaning the premium plus out-of-pocket expenses, of a family plan versus a student health plan is critical to understanding which plan is most cost-effective and will best serve the needs of your college student."

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07/28/2009

Health insurance costs in Alabama have increased by 95% since 2000, according to the Health Care Status report.

The report reveals that the number of small businesses or companies providing health coverage benefits to workers dropped by two percent since 2000. Currently, only 48% of small employers in Alabama offer health benefits to workers.

The soaring costs of health insurance have affected individuals as well. According to the report, 28% of middle-class families spend at least 10% of their total income on health care.

A related study found that the limited options offered by health insurance companies is an issue related to these rising costs. According to the study, BlueCross-BlueShield controls an 83% share of Alabama’s health insurance market. Roughly, 13.6% of Alabamians are uninsured.

Options for health insurance are even more limited for individuals with pre-existing conditions. In Alabama, the costs of health insurance vary based on health status and demographic factors. Coverage can also exclude some pre-existing conditions or even be completely denied.

The report also says that 16% of people in Alabama do not visit a doctor due to the high costs. Moreover, families and businesses in Alabama pay a hidden health tax of about $600 each year on premiums to subsidize the costs of the uninsured.

Currently, approximately 2.9 million people in Alabama avail themselves of health plans through their jobs. Subsidized by their employers, these people have an average family premium of $12,230.

Based on the Health Care Status Quo report, the need for health care reform in Alabama and across the U.S. is clear.

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07/13/2009

Insurance companies are seeing an increase in short-term health insurance applications this year.

Texas insurance company Blue Cross and Blue Shield expects an increase of 33% in individual short-term health insurance applications in the first half of the year.

Margaret Jarvis, spokesperson for Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Texas, said sales of individual health plans, whether short-term or long-term, in the first half of last year, were at a record high for the company. Sales of both types of individual insurance, Jarvis said, increased by over 30%.

The increasing interest in getting individual health care plans, in general, and in short-term insurance plans, in particular, is evident in the recent launching of more short-term individual policies by big health insurance companies. Shifting from group health insurance to temporary individual health coverage indicates the growing number of unemployed people in the U.S.

Recently, the Golden Rule subsidiary of United Healthcare in Texas launched two new short-term health plans that are specifically designed to cater to the health care needs of the unemployed not qualified for the subsidized health plans under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) or those who cannot afford it.

COBRA is a federal program that offers up to nine months of subsidy to those who wish to continue their health insurance after losing their job. COBRA, however, can also be very expensive for those who do not meet the primary requirements.

Another insurance company, Humana, opened a new short-term insurance plan in April for Arizona, Colorado, Alabama, Ohio, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Michigan.

Richard Collins, CEO of United Healthcare Golden Rule, said temporary health plans are necessary especially now, when the economy is not yet stable.

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07/13/2009

A recent survey commissioned by health insurance company CIGNA has found that when it comes to health care costs women are far more likely to search for bargains, such as by using healthcare comparison sites, than men are.

Kurt Weimer, who leads the companies division for individuals along with small businesses, says: “From our perspective, women have always been sort of the key decision maker in health care selection. It’s moved to the next level… Not only are they making that health care decision, now they’re looking at the economics.”

The survey found that out of the 1,000 people questioned only 15% of men compare the costs of medical treatments and doctors in comparison to 20% of women. The survey also found that 79% of women were more likely to buy the generic own brand range of medications, whereas only 69% of men would look to a generic range as opposed to the well known, and more expensive brands.

Weimer goes on to say that the recession has forced mothers to take on the role of “Chief financial officer” as well as “Chief medical officer”, pointing out “If you’re like all of us, you’re looking at how to make ends meet.”

Executive director of the National Association of Mothers Centers (motherscenter.org) believes that women might be feeling the pressure of the recession and downturn in the economy more so than men because they make “the bulk of the buying decisions for the family”.

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01/30/2009

Courtesy of Assurant Health

Short Term Medical Insurance - For individuals and families in brief periods of transition.

Short Term Medical Insurance, also known as temporary health insurance, protects you and your family from large medical bills that can result from an unexpected illness or injury. It’s protection and coverage you can rely on – no matter if you’re in between permanent coverage or in a life transition. And, if you’re uncertain about how long you’ll need coverage, Short Term Medical Insurance is ideal since you can pay on a month-to-month basis.

Short Term Medical Insurance is appropriate for:

People in Transition or others who may be in-between permanent health insurance plans like those offered by most employers.

Examples of people who might purchase Short Term Medical insurance: people between job, people seeking a less expensive alternative to COBRA, employed people who need coverage while waiting for their new employer’s group coverage to begin, temporary or seasonal employees, and recent college graduates.

Individual Medical Insurance - Permanent Health Insurance for Individuals and Families.

For individuals and families in need of coverage for 6 months or more. Individual Medical insurance is designed to provide people with the permanent protection they need from the financial hardship that can come from just one unforeseen illness or injury. Individual Medical Insurance also allows you the flexibility to choose the right plan for you – from the most cost-effective to the most comprehensive.

Permanent Health Insurance is appropriate for:

Individuals and Families whose need for health insurance is expected to last greater than six months.

Examples of people who might purchase Individual Medical insurance: self-employed individuals and their families, individuals working at companies that do not provide health insurance, individuals who are not satisfied with their employer’s health insurance, and retirees not yet eligible for Medicare.

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10/03/2008

Maybe you've changed jobs, or started a new job, and the health coverage doesn't take effect right away. Or, you've finished college, and are no longer covered under your parents' plan. Perhaps you may be between jobs, and don't know when you will get another job with health benefits.

Even a minor gap in insurance coverage can be cause for worry, because medical bills paid out-of-pocket can be financially devastating.

If this is the case, then short-term medical insurance may be appropriate. When you leave a job, you can choose to continue your coverage under the COBRA act of 1985, or get temporary coverage as your state laws dictate. Or, you can elect to purchase a short-term medical plan.

Weigh the pros and cons, and decide which choice is best for your situation.

Short-term medical insurance is best for those who are in good health, and have no pre-existing conditions. One of the biggest appeals of a short-term plan is its low premium. Depending on the policy, benefits can be up to $2 million per person. However, most policies have a limit on how long they last. The majority last for 12 months, although some insurers have plans with coverage up to 36 months. Short-term insurance can be bought in one-month increments, making it easy to drop the benefits at the end of any given month.

Surgery, hospitalization, emergency room visits, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, follow-up visits, and limited mental health care are included under most short-term health policies, but under limits and conditions.

Because of its low cost, short-term health insurance does not usually cover routine preventative care such as physical exams, immunizations, and PAP tests. A good rule to remember with short-term health coverage is that it doesn't pay unless you've actually suffered an illness or injury for the first time during the policy period.

Most companies offer a 30-day guarantee period, and will refund 100% of your premium within this time if you decide that you don't want the policy . To get your money back during this window, however, you must not have filed any claims.

With some short-term medical plans, your deductible will apply on a per-injury or per-illness basis. After you've paid the deductible, most insurers will pay up to 50 or 80% of the next $5,000 of medical bills before 100% coverage takes effect, up to the plan maximum.

A short-term health insurance policy works like an "indemnity" plan that gives you the choice to go to any doctor or specialist you like. However, most plans do require pre-authorization, requiring that you obtain approval from your insurer before you are hospitalized (except for emergency treatment). If you don't get pre-authorization, your insurance company won't reimburse you.

If you aren't one of the 170 million Americans covered under an employer plan, short-term health insurance may be an appealing, less expensive alternative. We offer short-term medical from Assurant Health and you can begin the application process at our homepage.

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03/05/2007
We knew from the very beginning that the real purpose behind the NOW v. Scheidler case was to disrupt our effective pro-life efforts. The abortionists and the radical feminists at the National Organization for Women could see the impact we were having and they had no rebuttal to message. So they sought to silence us in the courts. Scheidler grandson Aaron Miller sits beneath one of the billboards that featured his picture and inspired many pregnant women to seek help We were determined not to let them succeed. During the 1998 trial we continued our life-saving work at the League.

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03/05/2007
The President signed the 2007 Continuing Appropriations Resolution into law on February 15. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will be funded at $28.9 billion, an increase of 2.1 percent last year. The National Science Foundation (NSF) will be funded at $4.7 billion. This is an increase of $335 million in NSF's research account to fund Innovation Programs. The increase of nearly 8 percent corresponds with the amount proposed in the President's American Competitiveness Initiative, which advocates doubling NSF's budget in 10 years. In the Department of Education, funding for the Institute for Education Sciences would remain at $517.

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03/04/2007
(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in the United States are not happy with their medical services, according to a poll by CBS News and the New York Times. 57 per cent of respondents are dissatisfied with the quality of health care in the country. Health care in the U.S. is based on a system of benefits provided by employers, as well as the Medicare and Medicaid programs which allocate health insurance for the elderly, disabled and poor. Around 45 million Americans are uninsured. 64 per cent of respondents think the federal government should guarantee health insurance for all Americans. U.S. president George W.

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03/04/2007
This is the second in a series of articles about financial planning throughout your life. My first article focused on advice for your 20s, when you've gained the education/skills you need for the career you have chosen. You are earning money and learning how to handle it. I discussed identifying goals and budgeting, saving and investing to meet those goals. In the final article, I will focus on advice when you are in your 50s and 60s. Now let's look at your 30s and 40s. By the time you are in your 30s, you are generally settled in a career. You will probably change jobs a number of times before retirement.

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03/04/2007
February/March 2007 As immigration continues to change the face of New York City and other parts of the United States, social workers will be increasingly challenged to address the unique needs of immigrant families, children and youth. Child welfare service providers especially must have the resources, information and skills necessary to effectively address the complex needs of immigrant families involved with the child welfare system. This article will present a brief overview on factors that affect permanency planning for immigrant youth and recommend resources for those who work with immigrant families and children.

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03/04/2007
FORT HOOD, Texas - One of the first sights greeting visitors to Fort Hood is a day-care center's playground, brightly colored evidence of the Army's commitment to be family-friendly. A few blocks away is a more poignant symbol: an office building recently converted into a first-of-its-kind support center for women and children whose husbands and fathers have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. From Fort Hood alone, the toll has passed 365. ''It's our sanctuary,'' said Ursula Pirtle, whose daughter frequents a playroom at the center. Three-year-old Katie never met her father, Heath. He was killed in Iraq in 2003.

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03/04/2007
Massachusetts residents can buy health insurance for an average of $175 a month, a figure much lower than previously cited, the Patrick administration announced yesterday. "This is a big improvement from the first round of bids and a big step forward for health care reform," Gov. Deval L. Patrick said yesterday. "I want to thank our insurance carriers for working with us to develop more affordable plans." Massachusetts' new health care reform legislation requires all residents to obtain health insurance. The Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority was created to oversee the initiative.

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03/04/2007
Despite having won formal equality, the lack of an organised women's movement means that the Howard government has been able to take back a lot of the reforms won as a result of the struggles of the 1970s and 1980s. No reform is permanent under capitalism, and without a strong movement that mobilises to defend and expand reforms to improve women's lives, the capitalist class can easily remove, or knobble, the gains that have been won. While PM John Howard has taken the axe to women's services, his government has also launched a massive attack on the working class in the form of Work Choices and attacks on welfare.

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03/03/2007
DOVER- The health care advocacy group Families USA just released a new study about kids living without health insurance. Researchers say uninsured children are twice as likely to die from their injuries as those with insurance. They are also less likely to get expensive treatment. Researchers say there are 9 million uninsured children nationwide. The Delaware Health Care Commission says more than 21,000 of those uninsured kids live in Delaware. It is a statistic that frustrates local mothers, like Kim Walker of Dover. "I think it's inexcusable that our children aren't covered. I believe that most of the population would.

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03/03/2007
PD Deputy Leader Liz O'Donnell says Irish children need a world class hospital and thankfully under Mary Harney's leadership, vested and political interests are being taken out of health. She said: "We've to take the local politics, the institutional politics and the medical politics out of decisions about the best health services for all the people. Mary Harney has now properly restated the health agenda as an agenda for patients. The new children's hospital is a patient's project." Thank you for inviting me to speak at your annual lunch in aid of Heart Children Ireland.

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03/03/2007
without the pressure of mounting vet bills. In this article, we'll explore these custom-made insurance polices and help you to determine whether they are worth buying. Child Life Insurance Who Can Benefit? If your child is a six-figure-earning Hollywood star or an heir(ess) that is set to inherit an estate (which would be exposed to enormous estate taxes) then a child insurance policy should be your first priority. Purchasing an appropriate insurance policy (such a whole life policy) will protect your child and also have some cash value set aside for future use.

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03/03/2007
Dr. Monica Pombo is an assistant communication professor at Appalachian State University with tenure. Because of her position, she should be able to take comfort in the benefits she receives as a state employee, such as health insurance coverage for herself and her family. But unlike most of her colleagues, Pombo cannot rest assured that the university will take care of the well being of her family, at least medically. This is because Pombo is a lesbian, and because of her sexual orientation, the fact that she and her partner have been together 19 years and have a son means little in the eyes of the University of North Carolina system.

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03/02/2007
What is WorldWide Select? The newest International Health Insurance Coverage available for sale in the Republic of Panama. This Policy is underwritten by WorldWide Medical Assurance, Ltd., a Panamanian Insurance Company with offices at the brand new Global Bank Building in Calle 50. The Policy is registered at the Superintendent of Insurance office and can be sold legally to residents of Panama. Will WorldWide Select cover Expats living in Panama?

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03/02/2007
What was the biggest news this year involving World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz? Inflation? Poverty? Heck, no. It was when Wolfowitz took off his shoes at a mosque in Turkey and had two big toes sticking through holes in his gray socks. The tabloids went wild. The man spent decades working his way up to such an influential post, makes more than $390,000 a year - and yet he will never live this one down. I won't even bother to rehash the Britney Spears going-commando fiasco. But she's rich enough to afford a trashy image - you aren't.

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03/02/2007
She drove a few blocks to the American Cancer Society building, where members of the Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation were in the middle of their monthly meeting, and, without making eye contact, took a seat at the end of the conference table. Joy Moose, a sharp-tongued Realtor and the president of the nonprofit group stopped the meeting. ";Honey, how did the appointment go?"; she asked. Bonnie looked up, tears welling in her eyes. She put her face in her hands and sobbed. Video UTSA captures Bonnie Terry's life Tribute by Rep. Charlie Gonzalez read on the floor of the U.S.

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03/01/2007
At a time when employers routinely slash or eliminate health benefits for workers and their families or force union members on strike to preserve those benefits, when insurance plans routinely restrict workers' choice of doctors and prescription drugs, and when more working families declare bankruptcy due to medical debt, only one reform can provide the health care security working people need: single-payer. Under single-payer, you don't face the loss of health benefits if you lose your job or are forced out on strike. You don't face employers constantly shifting costs onto your back.

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03/01/2007
Flexible spending arrangements' use-it-or-lose-it feature pertains not just to the end of a calendar year (and possible 21/2-month grace period) but to termination of employment with a company. If employees know they're going to leave a job where they have an FSA, they can review their contributions and expenditures since the beginning of the year and make qualifying purchases from any unspent balance. But they'll have to do it before they leave the job.

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03/01/2007
In an op-ed published in the Baltimore Sun a few months ago, I questioned Maryland legislators' interest in mandating individual health insurance coverage. I pointed out that Maryland already mandates that individuals buy auto coverage, yet the rate of non-insurance for auto is 12 percent, not much different from the rate of non-insurance for health, 14.9 percent. I also pointed out in that article that part of the reason many people don't buy health coverage is because the legislature has made it unaffordable by enacting 59 benefit mandates.

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03/01/2007
This case describes the plight of just one of the estimated 150-200 million rural-to-urban migrants who have moved to China';s cities in search of work and better lives in what has been called "the world';s largest ever peacetime migration".(2) This report will call these people ‘"internal migrants" and will document how they are treated as second class citizens within their own country.

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02/28/2007
The Legislature is considering raising the state's minimum wage. This will be the fifth state effort to raise the minimum wage over $5.15 an hour. It has been 10 years since Congress last increased it. New Hampshire remains the only state in New England that has failed to raise the minimum wage in recent years. Vermont is at $7.25 an hour, and its minimum wage is automatically adjusted upward for inflation. Maine is at $6.75 and will increase to $7 on Oct. 1. Massachusetts is at $7.50 and will go to $8 in 2008. So why hasn't New Hampshire raised its minimum wage? A callous disregard for the needs of low-wage workers.

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02/28/2007
Major health care industry groups, the American Association of Retired Persons seniors group, several hospital and left-of-center political organizations are backing Gov. Janet Napolitano's effort to extend public health benefits to more uninsured children. Napolitano wants to allow more uninsured working class children to be covered by state public health programs by raising family income limits. There are an estimated 250,000 children without health insurance in the state. The Democratic governor's plan faces some skepticism from Republican state legislators worried about the costs of expanding the state's KidsCare program.

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