subject: The Best Way To Find Affordable Health Insurance [print this page] Depending upon who you ask, it is estimated that there are more than 30 million Americans walking about without health insurance. We know there are at least 15 million people unemployed so it is safe to say that most of them probably lack health insurance. So 30 million is probably close.
Why are there so many individuals lacking health insurance? Firstly, when an employee is laid off Federal law requires the company to continue to provide access to its health plan at the laid-off employee's expense. COBRA, as it is called, is often two to three times more expensive than what you can buy on the open market. As a result, the majority of laid off workers make a choice not to continue their health coverage. Secondly, while health coverage on the open market is considerably less expensive than COBRA, the pre-existing limitation clause of health policies has excluded most workers from obtaining affordable health coverage. Therefore, the majority of unemployed, self-employed and small business workers and their families are left without any health coverage.
In March, 2010, as part of President Obama's health care overhaul, the Affordable Care Act was signed into law. This law created a new program called the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan. This plan provides health coverage to those working families who have been unable to get, or have been denied coverage, as a result of a pre-existing medical condition. This law alone will drastically reduce the number of people that are unable to obtain health insurance.
I have found that the best way to find a low-cost health plan is to stick with those web sites that compare plans across hundreds of health care providers. This allows you to view the monthly cost, deductible, plan features, limitations and exclusions. Take the time to read the entire insurance policy BEFORE applying online. Some web sites make this easy by giving you the option of downloading the plan as PDF file. You want to know what your benefits are so there are no surprises later on when you want to use it. Consider downloading several options to make it easy for you to choose the best plan that meets your needs. If you're looking to obtain medical coverage or just want a cheaper plan, health plans are now more affordable then before.
The Best Way To Find Affordable Health Insurance
By: Scott Frank
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