Choosing a health insurance plan in the USA.

[cjb1981]

I have no idea what type of health insurance that I need. I do know that I would like to be able to go to the doctor's office without having to worry about spending $1,000, or something ridiculous like that. I know that I would like to be able to get a check up every year or so, just to be certain that I have no health issues. And of course it would be great if the insurance would cover the cost of any type of surgery that I may potentially need, or at least most of it. Not to mention a dental plan. My problem is, I can't find a straight answer anywhere. All of the websites that I've found are trying to sell me insurance when all that I am looking for at this point is information that is easily understandable. I am a 26 year old male and I only make around $25,000 a year. I can't really afford to spend over $100 a month. Also, it's been brought to my attention that a doctors office doesn't have to except your health insurance. I would hate to spend money on a plan, then have some kind of issue only to find out that my insurance isn't accepted. It all seems really confusing, and I'm finding no good answers. I'm hoping that some of you have some advice, thanks.

[sera300]

Go to your State's website and look under individuals who require insure and those who are sole proprietor's. Many States offer a group plan to capture such individuals.

Going to an insurance company to pay for individual plans & coverage will cost you approximately $1200/month since you are insured alone. Look for the State Group plans...I do not mean welfare, they are group plans to create access to affordable plans for individuals through creating a "group".

[EvilEvilKitten]

I pay $700 per year for my family. Everything "in house" including meds is FREE! Wheeee! The only out of pocket for outside consults is $12.

Basically - it all comes down to how much you can afford to pay, hun.

If you job does not offer group coverage, the search gets harder. Dental plans are expensive and you may have to let that part of it go for now. At your income level - there isn't much. Your choices are generally speaking a HMO or a PPO. Of the two a PPO would be prefered but what I'd do is to find a provider you like and ASK which plans he/she accepts. Do this in reverse order of doctor first, plan second. Do you see? Go to that plan and find the least expensive option, for now.

[eminatic]

yikes around here the receptionist wont even give you the time of day without insurance. most doctors will NOT see you without insurance. period. EVEN if you are willing to pay the difference.

[Cherry Cheesecake]

...What country do you live in? In most places if you are a citizen in real need of medical treatment they are required to give it to you by law. Or am I just thinking Emergency Rooms........?

[Yariome]

She probably just has amazing health care through an employer

[sera300]

Originally Posted by Yariome

She probably just has amazing health care through an employer

Private pays docs are happy to see, just bring the money then...ER's they cannot turn you away by law. Often many of us shell out money for healthcare premiums and for the cost difference. If you see a doc not covered by your plan..you pay out of pocket, never had a doc turn me down. I opted for the okay HMO...covers most. Not all and its about $450/month single coverage out of a group v. $1000/month for single plans no group. PPO? Too much Dental & vision? Still cheaper to pay the cost annually out of pocket---it's annually about $10,000. Medicines? Few are covered & must be on formulary....well working in the field we get access to "samples". Therefore, keep a few around & pay the remainder.

What people do not know is how to dispute the system...one mus$t be willing to stand up and begin an internal appeal. Basis? They can only determine what is a covered expense & have no right to dictate the correct care...only you & your doc can do this. Or call the health insurance over sight...or your senators.

[EvilEvilKitten]

Retired military veteran. Give up 20 years of your life and, yes, you get amazingly affordable health care. Of course, I was very good at dodging mortars, rockets, etc and so forth so I do not get the totally tax free income, and other benefits, that comes with being wounded/disabled. Yes, I get amazing health care through an ex-employer.

ER's have to treat you but that doesn't mean you won't get billed for it later.

Shop around. Ask the receptionist which plans they accept. They usually know. OF get a job that offers better benefits or pays well enough for you to fund your own.

[EvilEvilKitten]

I get my health care through an ex-employer.
No dental or vision though.

[constantlylearning]

This is a major situation that will be very interesting to follow with the
upcoming elections. One of several "hot button" issues facing politicians
in the USA. Many around the world subscribe to "socialized mediciene"
where each citizen is guaranteed coverage. So, watch and listen especially
this upcoming year.