In this time of recession, cheap medical insurance can prove to be a savior for many Americans. But does it really exist? Where does one find them? And is it really worth spending any money on cheap medical insurance plans?
Cheap medical policies have long been avoided because of the belief that they provide inadequate coverage. But with the financial crunch,
people are not left with much option. Hence the need is to carefully hunt for a policy that comprehensively covers all the health needs without denting the pockets much.
Government aided medical insurance is the cheapest option that is available in the market. However, there are too many restrictions attached to these plans and not all Americans qualify for it. Hence, for the larger population a managed health care plan is a good alternative when looking for inexpensive plans.
Among the managed plans, HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) is the most cost effective. It provided preventive and primary healthcare. But there is a network of healthcare service providers and one necessarily has to stick to it. There is another option, known as the Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). This is a comparatively costly plan but the beneficiary has the luxury to consult doctors beyond the network.
Not just managed plans, there are certain insurers that cater to only those who are looking for inexpensive health plans. If one is looking to buy some economical plans, then these carriers are a good option. Since they offer specialized plans, they offer wider range of choices to the consumers.
The other way to get inexpensive plans is to access insurance at work. Group insurance is comparatively cheaper. Plus a part of the premium is paid by the employer, hence what the beneficiary has to pay out of his pocket turns out to be much lesser.
Other than going in for plans that are designed to be cheap, one can also lower down the premium on a regular premium. Here is how:
1. Plans with higher deductibles have lower premiums. Hence if you looking for a plan only as a backup, then such a plan will be a good option.
2. Specialized plans, which cater to a specific disease or for a specific period of time, are also a good example for inexpensive health insurance.
3. If one is accessing a plan, when the insurance company is offering some form of discount, then it is a good opportunity to get it for cheap.
4. New premium rates turn out to be cheaper than renewals. Hence going in for a new policy instead of renewing your existing one would be easier on your pocket.
5. However, conversely, if you have stayed in on a plan for a long duration, the company may reward you for your loyalty by offering some sort of discount on your premium.
6. And last but not the least comes the golden rule. Premiums are calculated on the basis of the age and existing health conditions. So do not wait for any medical calamity to strike you. The sooner you buy a medical plan, the cheaper it will turn out for you.
Contrary to popular belief, cheap medical plans provide complete coverage. One only needs to look for it patiently. They are worth the trouble.
