What should I look for in family medical health plans being offered by several insurance companies? What type of plan should I get for my family?
Keep in mind that with HMO medical health plans, you’ll be limited to only the physicians, specialists, and medical facilities that are within the HMO network. Medical services received from out-of-network providers are usually not covered, but you should check with the insurance company just to be clear. A PPO plan on the other hand, is ideal for individuals and families who do not require regular checkups. Medical providers within the network have negotiated with the PPO to give discounted rates for health care that you receive from them. A PPO plan will also allow your family to see specialists outside of the network but the amount you’ll pay is usually higher. You should always take a look at family medical health plans’ deductibles, premium, and co-pay amounts because once you buy a policy, you already agree with the indicated insurance rates. Deductible is what you pay out of your pocket before the insurance company starts paying any claims. Premium is the amount that you have to pay monthly to keep the insurance. Co-pay is the amount you pay for a visit to the doctor or for prescriptions. Answer by general public - July 3, 2009 @ 3:41 pm 1 CommentLeave a comment |
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You should first make sure that the family medical health plans you’re considering to buy have the level of coverage your family needs. The level of coverage of a health insurance plan will also depend on what type of plan it is. If you regularly go to the doctor for checkups or if your kids frequently need a doctor’s care, then you might be better off with a Health Maintenance Organization plan. The co-pays for doctor’s visits and other medical treatment received are usually very low, so it won’t be too much of a burden to your pocket if you regularly see your doctor.
I would first try and figure out what kind of plan is best for your family, HMO or PPO.
It may depend on price, who your doctor excepts or what coverages are most important to you.
In California, HMO plans for individual Health Insurance Policies tend to be more expensive then PPO plans but you pay less when you actually use the insurance policy.
You can find out what insurance your doctor excepts by calling them and finding out which carries and PPO or HMO with that carrier.
One of the most important coverages for me is the Out-of-Pocket Max. That is your stop loss for the year on medical bills. Depending on your need will really determine that for you.
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Comment by Lesley — July 7, 2009 @ 12:09 pm