| Finding the best medical insurance plan is important | | | | premiums |
| for several reasons: | | | | * Short-term insurance plans if you just need |
| * You want to be able to get yourself and your | | | | coverage for a few months |
| family members medical care whenever you need | | | | * High-deductible plans, often combined with a |
| it. People without health insurance are less likely to | | | | Medical Savings account, that cover all your |
| get preventive care and to let medical problems | | | | medical bills once you reach the deductible |
| go until they become serious. | | | | * Major medical plans that just cover accidents |
| * You want to be protected from financial | | | | and illnesses |
| disaster if you or someone in your family has a | | | | So how do you choose? Look at your lifestyle |
| major accident or develops a serious illness. Over | | | | and see what type of insurance you need. |
| 25% of bankruptcy filings are directly related to | | | | If you're young and in good health, you may only |
| medical bills. | | | | need a major medical policy. If you're looking for |
| But what's the best type of insurance for you? | | | | a job that offers health insurance as a benefit, |
| That depends on your needs, age, health status, | | | | then you might need a short-term policy. |
| and more. | | | | Have children to think about? A comprehensive |
| Choosing an Insurance Plan | | | | policy, such as an indemnity plan, or a PPO or |
| Multiple types of insurance plans are available for | | | | HMO might offer the best coverage. |
| you to choose from: | | | | Where to Get the Best Rate |
| * Traditional indemnity plans that let you choose | | | | Whatever type of policy is best for you, be sure |
| your doctor and pay for most of your bills once | | | | to go to an insurance comparison website and do |
| you satisfy the deductible | | | | some comparison shopping before you buy |
| * Managed care plans such as PPOs and HMOs, | | | | anything. This will help ensure that you're getting |
| where you exchange some freedom in selecting | | | | the best price for your insurance. |
| your health care providers for lower monthly | | | | |