With the ever-increasing cost of health care,
procedures and medicines, it's no wonder that the cost of health
insurance has also dramatically risen over the past few years.
But as that's happened, insurance companies and the government
have seen the potential negative impact of families and individuals
without insurance. There are some things you can do if you don't
have health insurance.
A federal mandate requires that all 50 states have a health insurance
program for children. Each state was allowed to create a plan
tailored to the needs of children in that state, but there are
some things that are the same from one state to the next. The
first is eligibility.
Government funded health programs typically have very stringent
income guidelines. These health insurance programs have income
requirements, but the criteria allow higher income than most programs.
Another criteria for participation is that the child isn't covered
by any other health insurance. That differs from most programs
in a very important way. Most programs say that if the family
has access to insurance, they aren't eligible. That means that
parents who have employer-based insurance don't qualify. But many
of the employer-based plans are too expensive, and workers sometimes
simply can't afford the premiums. This program is designed to
help fill that gap.
These programs don't cover families - only children. But there
are some great benefits for those who qualify. Some states offer
mental health benefits, transportation to and from appointments
and dental/vision benefits.
If your children don't qualify for this program,
or if you're in the market for individual health insurance for
an adult or private insurance for a family, you have some options.
Even though insurance is typically very expensive, you can take
some steps to control costs.
You can eliminate extras such as vision and dental coverage, and
increase deductibles to lower the cost of your insurance premiums.
Look for policies that don't include maternity benefits and cancer
plans as more affordable general health insurance plans. Basic
coverage will likely be less expensive than an all-inclusive health
insurance program.
Finally, shop before you make a decision. Even if you're offered
employer-based insurance, you might find a better deal elsewhere
(depending on the amount of employer participation). Look to professional
groups for discounts and advice.
About the author:
Jeff Lakie is the founder of
Insurance Resources a website providing information on
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