Whether you’re purchasing healthcare through your employer or the government health insurance marketplace, choosing the right provider and plan can help ensure you’re getting the best value.
When comparing health plans, consider the network of doctors and hospitals in each provider’s directory. Also, look at deductibles, co-payments and out-of-pocket costs.
Cost
How much you pay for health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, your income, and the type of coverage you choose. The cost of your policy also varies based on the county and state you live in.
A plan’s deductible and copay costs can also affect your monthly premiums. In addition, you should consider your health care needs and the network of medical professionals available through your insurance.
Many health plans coordinate care with a network of doctors, hospitals, and other medical facilities. This allows you to use a variety of providers without having to worry about paying out of pocket for the full cost of treatment.
Coverage
As you look for the right health insurance provider, it’s important to consider the coverage they offer. This includes the type of coverage, network of providers, and cost-sharing elements.
Whether it’s an HMO, PPO, or point of service plan, your coverage will depend on which healthcare providers are in the network. Some plans don’t cover services from out-of-network providers unless it’s an emergency situation.
The healthcare providers in your insurance’s network will be listed in the plan’s “provider directory.” You can search for them online, or call the provider to find out if they accept your plan.
Choosing a health care provider is a personal decision that involves considering credentials, experience, outcomes, and affiliated hospital quality. The doctor you choose will likely be the person who treats you for the rest of your life. It’s also important to remember that some doctors only see patients in certain insurance plans, so make sure you select the best one for your needs.
Flexibility
Flexibility is the ability to adjust muscles at will, and to move in different directions. It is an important part of movement efficiency, and helps prevent injury, improve posture, decrease back pain, and maintain healthy joints.
A health insurance provider will offer flexible benefit plans as a way to allow employees the choice of purchasing more benefits, or less, than they would otherwise receive from a traditional plan. Employees can purchase these benefits through a combination of employer contributions, payroll deductions, and flex credits.
A flexible benefit structure can be a premium only, medical and dependent savings plan, or an HCSA (Health Care Spending Account). A health savings account is similar to a chequing account and allows the employee to allocate amounts that are pre-taxed each year, towards medical expenses. A dependent savings account allows the employee to contribute a portion of their earnings towards their dependents’ health expenses. Typically, an employer contributes to these accounts in the form of payroll deductions.
Access
One of the most important aspects of a good health insurance plan is access to quality care at affordable rates. This is especially true for the uninsured, and it’s a challenge that is made even more complicated by government programs like the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The best way to go about it is to do your homework. The key is to find a plan with a robust network of providers and a provider that offers competitive prices. You’ll also want to choose a provider that has been around a while. Experience is the name of the game, and a trusted partner will go the extra mile to make sure you get the best possible care.
A well-crafted health plan also comes with the benefits of a supportive community. This includes a network of doctors and hospitals that are committed to providing quality care for everyone. Some providers even offer free services to the underserved and uninsured to help them take the next step on their road to wellness.
