Medical Insurance Plans:
By Morey S. Maghzi 

Health care is becoming the number one consumer issue in our society. While we cannot predict the future, we can certainly take measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones from life’s unexpected changes.

Without health insurance, it is difficult to find a doctor or facility to treat your illness. You could even be turned away from emergency rooms if you are not in a life-or-death situation. Choosing a health plan can be challenging. You want to find the best value at a price that you can afford. Your choice of a health plan can greatly affect the quality of the medical care you receive. The quality and cost of medical care depends more on you than on your doctor. With the rising cost of medical insurance, becoming a wise medical consumer is essential. 

There are three common types of medical insurance:

HMO: - You must choose a primary doctor from a network of participating physicians.

• Low co-pay for office visits ($10-35)

• Coverage is usually 100% with all preventive care covered.

• You must get authorization to see a specialist.

• Some HMO plans allow the insured to self-refer to a specialist with higher co-pay.

• The plan bears responsibility for the quality of care you receive.

PPO: - You have the freedom to choose your own physician or specialist.

• - Higher co-pay for office visits.

• - You pay the entire bill until you meet your deductible ($250 – 2500).

• - After you have met your deductible, you pay a certain percentage of the bill.

• - The plan takes no responsibility for the quality of care you receive.

POS: - Offers both HMO and PPO in one plan with certain restrictions.

• Offers the cost savings of an HMO and the flexibility of a PPO.]

Confronted by numerous insurers, many variations in health plans, and different premiums, it is wise to seek professional advice. A health insurance broker who is not tied to an insurance company can act in the client’s best interest by searching for the most competitive premium rates and the best plan to suit the client’s needs. This service is free for consumers and can save you time and make coverage comparison easy.

For more information please call Knox General Insurance at 714-744-3300.