When looking at health insurance plans, make sure you consider your doctor’s network. The larger the network, the more likely you’ll find a doctor in your area who accepts your plan. If you live in a rural area, that’s even more important. This means that you should eliminate any plans that don’t include your preferred doctors or have too few provider options.
HMO
HMO health insurance plans are becoming increasingly popular for a number of reasons, including their affordable prices and low deductibles. Most HMO plans require members to use the services of doctors and other health care providers in their network. However, they will occasionally refer members to out-of-network specialists for specific conditions. Depending on the situation, members may have to pay the entire bill for these services.
PPO
PPO health insurance plans are very similar to HMOs, but they are more flexible, and they offer a wider range of healthcare providers. You do not have to have a referral for a PPO plan, and you can see as many doctors as you want. The downside to PPOs is that they are more expensive, but that is because the insurer absorbs more costs.
EPO
While EPO health insurance plans do not require referrals from a primary care physician, it is important to check with your insurance company. Most require pre- authorization for certain services, such as surgeries, specialty drugs, and medical equipment. You should read your Summary of Benefits and Coverage carefully to understand how this process works. You may need to pay a higher co-pay or a higher deductible before a certain service is covered by your plan.
Mediclaim
Whether you’re looking to buy a health insurance plan for yourself or someone you know, Mediclaim health insurance plans can help cover your medical expenses. Most Mediclaim health insurance plans cover hospitalization-related medical costs, including ambulance services and doctor’s visits. They also cover preventive health care, such as screenings and checkups. However, the premiums on Mediclaim health insurance plans can be expensive.
Short-term
Short-term health insurance plans are insurance policies that last for a specific amount of time. These policies were originally geared towards people who needed temporary medical coverage. They were meant to fill in the gaps between longer- term plans and their temporary counterparts.
Special Enrollment Period
Special Enrollment Periods are a chance for consumers to get a new health insurance plan at a discounted rate. For example, a person who earns up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level can sign up for a nearly free health insurance plan during the Special Enrollment Period. They then have 60 days to decide on a new plan and make their first payment. Additionally, they can change plans if necessary.
