5 things to consider when choosing health coverage

Posted by Steve Jen
3
Jan 14, 2016
186 Views
With the variety of options, it is easy for you to be overwhelmed when looking for a health insurance plan. There are now a number of different carriers and a wide array of plans that range from lower end ones to the more expensive options. However, considering a few things, when searching can help you make the best decisions for you and your family.

Here are 5 things to consider when choosing health coverage:

#1-The Type of Provider Network and Plan
Does the plan cover the pharmacies, healthcare providers and hospitals that you prefer?

It is important to consider the fact that a health insurance plan only covers medicines and services that fall in their network. Medical service providers that fall out of the network might require additional out-of-pocket expenses and at times these might not be covered at all.

Before you actually purchase a health insurance plan, check to see if it covers your preferred primary care provider and the pharmacy close to your home.

#2-Premiums
How much will you be paying every month?

A premium is the amount you will be paying every month whether or not you use the medical services in the plan. Remember that these are not the only costs covered in a plan. They are paid on a monthly basis and if you fail to make your payments on time you might lose your coverage.

#3-Deductibles
What is the total amount you need to cover before your health coverage kicks in?

If your deductible is $2000, your plan might not kick in for most medical expenses until you have paid the $2000 out of pocket. Out of pocket expenses might include specialist visits, primary care, and in some cases even prescriptions.

People who go for higher deductible plans typically have lower monthly payments while those who have lower deductibles have higher premiums.

#4-Coinsurance
If you choose coinsurance, are you aware of the costs you will be required to pay to access medical care?

Don’t forget that you may still be responsible for out of pocket expenses even after you have reached your deductible. This might include coinsurance- a part of the cost you must pay for a medicine or service- a flat fee you are required to pay for covered services.

#5-Medicine Coverage
Does your plan cover your regular prescriptions?

Each insurance provider has a list of medicines covered in the plan. If a medicine is not included in a plan you might need to go through a lengthy process to secure coverage for them. The list of medicines is also divided into categories that determine how much of a copay you need to cover. Make sure that you create a list of all the medicines you are using currently, and then compare the list to the provider’s specifications so that you have a better understanding of the out of the pocket expenses you will need to cover.

These are the 5 most important things you need to consider when going for a health insurance plan. If you are looking for reliable health insurance in NY, check out Affordable Health Insurance in NY today. Aetna individual Health Insurance NY,
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