Why is it that most of us don't think twice when we're spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on luxuries and "toys." But, when the issue of "insurance" and protecting our families and ourselves comes up - we back off?
Unfortunately every day many new families in the U.S. are caught off-guard with a major medical problem that they cannot afford and are not covered by insurance for. It can cost you everything you have and also lead to getting bad care in the hospital.
Don't think you can't get an affordable health care insurance program - follow the following 6 steps to help you save up to 30%:
Look In Your Local Area
Choose the right insurance plan by browsing and doing some research on your State's insurance website as insurance plans and prices vary widely by state. A good site will list companies available in your area, prices for both individual and family plans, and any lower-cost options your state offers if you meet certain income requirements.
Know Your Priorities
All plans are different and you need to know what your priorities are. Do you have a specific doctor you like seeing? You better make sure that doctor is covered by your insurance.
Use an insurance broker
It can make life much easier on you to bring on a broker to help. This is mainly because they have relationships with multiple companies - they can help you find the best fit for you. Brokers will do all your leg work and also advise you on how to get your prices down.
Take a "free look"
This is a great way to test drive an insurance program first for a short period with a full money back guarantee if you have problems with it. Just know that terms and conditions do apply - read them!
Health Savings Account
If you are seeing the doctor just twice a year then HSA is a great option. It goes hand-in-hand with an insurance policy that has a high deductible but low premiums. The money you save on premiums each month can be deposited into the HSA pre-tax, where it grows tax-deferred. You then use it to pay for any unexpected medical expenses. Once you turn 65, you can withdraw any money you didn't use and spend it on anything you want, including funding your retirement.
Negotiate
Remember, you still have to pay co-payments to doctors, hospitals and a part of your medications for most plans. So, when you get a plan, negotiate so you can save money for those things. Always ask for generic drugs and always ask your doctors for more affordable alternatives.
Unlike what many think, it is still very possible to get low cost health insurance in the United States. Especially now with the internet, you can get multiple quotes from many companies right away - this helps you negotiate and get lower prices.
