Changing health insurance companies can feel like an overwhelming and complicated ordeal. However, when you go with a reputable insurance company and are prepared with a few questions, you’ll find the process is much less painful. To help you get started, here are seven questions you should ask when choosing a plan. As you read through these questions, have a pen and paper handy so you can write down a few of your own that are more refined to your particular needs. Once you have a solid list of questions you need to ask, you can find the answers to ensure you make informed decisions about your health insurance.
#1: How much will I pay?
On the top of most people’s minds is how much you’ll be paying on a monthly basis for your health insurance. You’ll also want to make sure that you find out the cost of deductibles and what to expect to pay for doctor’s appointments and medical prescriptions.
#2: What kind of plan is it?
There are many different plans from PPO to HMO, and getting an answer to this question will let you know how much you’ll pay out-of-pocket and what doctors you can use. In many cases, you can go to a doctor outside of your plan, but it will cost more. The better understanding you have about the plans advantages as well as limitations, the better choice you’ll make for the health insurance needs of you and your family.
#3: Can I still use my regular doctor?
Find out if your current doctor accepts the health insurance plan that you are switching to. For some people, this isn’t a deal breaker, but being prepared to change doctors can save you time in the future.
#4: What do I do if I get injured away from home?
Learn more about what you should do if you are traveling out of town and go through an injury. Find out what the proper procedures are for being in a hospital that doesn’t accept your insurance, and what your steps should be if this happens to ensure you get reimbursed.
#5: Are there any benefits included?
Some plans come with benefits such as vision or dental. If these are important to you, ask how you can get them added or what plans already have them included.
#6: What routine exams are covered?
Pap smears, cancer screenings, and immunizations are just some of the routine exams that may be important for you to get covered. Ask what routine exams are covered and which ones aren’t to learn if the health insurance plan you’re choosing is right for you.
#7: Who do I call when I have more detailed questions?
Get the number that you should call when you have more detailed questions as you use your coverage. Knowing that help is available when you need it can take the stress out of using health insurance. Keep the number on your fridge or in your phone so you can quickly find it when you need it.
