is it safe to purchase health insurance on the phone or internet?

I recently became self employed. I don't presently carry health insurance, however I have preexisting health issues. There are many offers that sound too good to be true my concern is they want money over the phone or internet. Their offer was $129---$179 mtly to included doctors visits medications no deductible but a copay for doctors visit and medications. Could this be legit? Who do I call to check how legit?
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If you have pre-existing conditions you definitely do not want to do this over the internet. Depending upon the condition each insurance company could do several things, such as increasing the premium and covering the condition, accepting but not covering that condition, or actually declining you. Doing this over the internet you do not know what the company will do with that condition. Over the phone is OK if the person you are talking with is a local person that represents all of the major companies in your area because they can check your condition with the different companies to find out what each company will do with that condition. The plan you are describing sounds like a defined benefit plan. I recommend these plans ONLY to people who cannot qualify for a major medical plan because of the limitations. For example, they'll only pay you $500 per day if you go into the hospital - you have the pay the $3000 - $4000 balance. They are legit but in my opinion not very good because of the many limitations. Don't fall for the marketing gimmick "group plans for the self-employed". Again, these plans are not really group plans and have many limitations. The best way for you to proceed is to contact a local agent that works with all of the major companies in your area. The agent can work with you to find the best plan for your situation and budget. There is no extra charge using an agent and you have someone local that you can go to if you have questions or problems.
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