Considerations for Choosing a Healthcare Plan

The task of choosing a healthcare plan for individual or family coverage should not be taken lightly. There are many factors to consider. Make a selection based on the answers to some pertinent questions.

What personal factors need consideration?

• Age of covered applicant(s)
• Current health status
• Family health history
• Current necessary medications
• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Typical medical needs

What are the plan options?
Healthcare insurance companies typically offer coverage under one of a variety of types of common plans. The options include:

• Health maintenance organizations or HMOs-The plan covers services provided by a specific network of providers and facilities. The plan offers the least degree of freedom in terms of choosing a healthcare provider. Individuals typically have a primary care provider who refers patients to specialists if needed. If an individual obtains treatment from a provider, not in the network, they do not receive compensation from the plan.
• Preferred provider organizations or PPOs-Plans offer more leeway in choosing a health care provider. But costs are higher for out-of-network care. Patients need not have a referral to see a specialist. Deductibles are higher when receiving care from out-of-network providers.
• Exclusive provider organizations or EPOs-Patients must see healthcare providers in the EPO network or forfeit coverage unless the event is an emergency. Specialist referrals are not necessary. Premiums are typically lower than PPO plans.
• Point-of-service plans or POS-The plans combine the features of HMOs and PPOs. Care must be provided by in-network health care professionals or incur higher fees. Out-of-network treatment requires payment by patients. Patients are reimbursed after submitting claims to the POS.
• High-deductible health plans or HDHPs-The plan may be any of the options mentioned above. However, individuals choose a higher deductible before the plan pays benefits. HDHPs may be connected to a savings plan to cover expenses not paid by the selected plan.

Which Healthcare Plan Category to Choose?
Each plan is usually available in different categories, which are as follows:

• Platinum plan covers 90 percent of medical costs leaving 10 percent for the patient.
• Gold plans cover 80 percent of costs, which leaves 20 percent.
• Silver plans cover 70 percent of costs.
• Bronze plans pay 60 percent of medical expenses.
• Catastrophic plans pay after patients meet the high deductible.

Article originally published on HazenMirts.co