8 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Health Insurance Plan

October 13, 2020

You never know when you might need it, but not having it can be detrimental to your future finances. Yes, I am talking about health insurance. With the advent of new diseases and conditions, not having health insurance can not only drain your finances but can lead you to not getting the health care you need. Health insurance coverage can be quite expensive, especially if your employer doesn’t offer it, so it is important to know what questions to ask before you begin your search.

Does My Employer Offer Any Coverage?

For the most part, employer-offered coverage will cost you less than purchasing a policy on your own. This is because the employer covers part of the cost for their employees.

I Qualify for Medicaid/Medicare?

Does your lack of income qualify you or your family for Medicaid? Are you old enough to sign up for Medicare? These are two other options for you if you meet the criteria.

Who Do I Need to Cover?

Are you looking for health insurance for just yourself or your family? It is an important consideration when you are searching for the right plan, as you are talking about finding the right plan for multiple people of differing ages and medical issues, rather than just yourself.

Do You Have a Doctor You Want to Use/How Often Do You See a Doctor?

If you have a regular doctor you wouldn’t think of leaving, you will want to make sure any plan you are considering includes them. For some people, they don’t go to the doctor often or they go to walk-in clinics. Others have a doctor they have been patients of for years. It can be an important consideration.

How Much Can You Really Afford?

Affordability is the area where many people put their most focus, but don’t go with the least expensive plan if it is not what you are going to need. Not only should are you thinking about how much it will cost you per month or year, but also co-pays and deductibles. If you have chronic health conditions, you want to make sure you can still afford to see your doctor regularly. For many people, paying a higher premium is much preferred over having to pay more to the doctor’s office and other healthcare providers.

What Is Included?

Does the plan cover routine exams, such as well-woman visits (pap smears), mammograms, immunizations, etc.? Will it cover vision care, dental? Does it include a special service you need, such as chiropractic care? What kind of coverage does it offer for prescriptions? Read what benefits are not covered as well to ensure you are not going to need that coverage.

Will I Need Pre-Approval?

Will you need to contact the insurance company or your regular physician to get pre-approval for going to the hospital or seeing another doctor? Can you go to the walk-in clinic if needed and it be covered, or do you have to see just one doctor?

Does the Insurance Come With Any Perks?

Some companies offer telemedicine, where you can talk to a healthcare provider on your tablet, computer, or phone, at no cost. Some provide health coaches to help you reach specific goals. Others offer discounts on products and services that can keep you healthy, including gym memberships.

Do your research before choosing a health insurance plan. With the wide variety of providers, both healthcare and insurance, it may take some effort, but being an informed consumer can save you money and headache in the long run.