Wednesday, November 10, 2010

What is your opinion as to why health insurance costs so much?

We recently got a quote for health insurance for $614! That is with employer paying half of employee's portion. Am I crazy or is this a bloated amount?
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Of course health insurance is very costly today even in a group plan. You may be better off looking into health insurance for "yourself" only and not subjected to the groups loss ratios. It's worth checking into if your health is good and then at least you'll know if you can do better elsewhere. The other advantage is if your company chooses to drop their group plan or you leave this job you will not be affected. Know your options!
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Would you purchase health insurance or put the $ in a savings account?

I have been debating whether to get health insurance thru my employer or putting that money in a savings account. I currently have no insurance, but leaning towards it. Everyone I speak to, however, advise putting it into a savings account, and not paying the insurance companies. Whats your opinion?
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Without Question, reservation or hesitation: Get the Health Insurance. I don't know who is advising you to put the money into a savings account, but they are not people who are aware of the cost of uninsured medical care. It doesn't even need to be catastrophic to be expensive. I got a bad stomach bug once, I went to the clinic... Total cost without insurance? $897.13. Total cost with insurance? $10 copay. Catastrophic illustrations are way more dramatic, though. $5+,000 for a broken limb, $100+,000 for cancer treatments, etc. etc. etc. If you have a choice in the health insurance the employer is offering you (and most companies have more than one option available), look into a plan that is HSA compatible. That way, you're paying the insurance company less AND you have an account that rolls over from year to year, accrues interest and may be tax free, depending on your state. A case of having your Cake and eating it too. But choice of plan, or not: get the insurance.
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How much is too much profit for health insurance companies to make?

I keep hearing how some companies made billions in profits but how many billions worth of claims did they pay to earn that profit? The people that complain that they made billions in profit never say how much they had to spend to earn it. Apparently some people think they are supposed to pay for billions in claims and just break even? And those of you that want government supplied health care because it cuts out the insurance companies profits: Do you really think the US government would not have massive overhead costs? What does the government do now that is more efficient than the private sector, anything?
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They don't spend as much as you think they do on payouts. They have high power attorneys who are paid big bucks to fight patient cases. That's why people are angry because instead of working with patients they are fighting against them.
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What are you going to do if you cant afford health insurance? How are you going to afford a fine?

For those of you that say its like being required to have car insurance: You can decide to not own a car and use other means to get around. And states only require you to get car insurance to cover damage you may cause to others not yourself. To opt out of the mandated health insurance do you have to die? This will NEVER pass.
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You will make the needed sacrifices. There's a thought. Make a sacrifice to get what you need. Hmmm, I think that was what we used to do.
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What are you going to do if you cant afford health insurance? How are you going to afford a fine?

For those of you that say its like being required to have car insurance: You can decide to not own a car and use other means to get around. And states only require you to get car insurance to cover damage you may cause to others not yourself. To opt out of the mandated health insurance do you have to die? This will NEVER pass.
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You will make the needed sacrifices. There's a thought. Make a sacrifice to get what you need. Hmmm, I think that was what we used to do.
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What kind of supplemental health insurance should I get for my trip to Argentina next month?

I am a student with a very basic health insurance plan that doesn't cover me while abroad. I will be spending time in Argentina next month and am looking to purchase some sort of health insurance that will cover any relatively serious health problems (i.e. hospitalization required) incurred during my trip. Any suggestions for me?
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try this, can help you www.insurance.2arz.com
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Will my Health Insurance sue the father of my baby for pregnancy-related expenses?

I am 7 months pregnant, and my partner and I are not married for complicated reasons and will not be married when the baby is born. I recently heard that my insurance company might sue him for medical expenses related to the pregnancy (he doesn't have health insurance). Is this true? Has this happened to any of you?
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They can't. He isn't the patient and has no financial responsibility to your medical needs in your pregnancy. I mean what would it matter if you were married or not? If you were married, then still couldn't make him pay for expenses...that's what insurance is for!!! You pay the monthly premium and they pay for everything else. You insurance is full of it.
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What is the best company to buy health insurance from?

Anyone have any personal recommendations? Im a 25 year old woman and I think it is about time I have health insurance.
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There is no one best company for everyone; if there was that would be the only company in existence. There are hundreds of plans and dozens of companies available. You'll want to visit a local independent agent that works with all the major companies. The agent can find the best policy for your situation and budget. They can explain the benefits of the different policies. The plans and premiums are exactly the same whether you use an agent or not.
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How soon I can use my employer supported health insurance?

I am going to start a new job from the last week of June. I am getting health care through my employer. I am wondering, would I be able to use my health insurance from July 1st? If I have a doctor visit on July 1st, would that be covered by my new insurance? My main question is, is there a "waiting period" for an insurance actually become active, after I am being insured?
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That will depend on the guidelines that your HR department has established. It is not uncommon for their to be a waiting period or even a period where you have coverage but your pre-existing conditions are not covered immediately (this 2nd scenario usually only happens when you have not had continuous coverage for the 6 months prior to joining the group plan). You will want to consider a short term health insurance plan so that you can have coverage until the waiting period is over. Be sure that you don't leave a gap in your coverage. Here is some more information on short term medical insurance plans:
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How do tourists coming to America get health insurance?

Particularly to Arizona. I have family coming from out of the country to Arizona to visit, where do I go to get them health insurance?
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health-quotes.isgreat.org - here is my health insurance plan. As I remember they can provide such a service.
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What is the best way to set up health insurance for partners of LLC for maximum tax benefit?

If the LLC wants to deduct the insurance premiums as "guaranteed payments" on IRS Form 1065, would the health insurance plan have to be established under the LLC or can the partners buy individual health insurance plans (under their name) and pay the premiums with their own money and then the LLC re-imburse the partners?
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healthplans.my-age.net - here is my health insurance plan. As I remember they can provide such a service.
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How much can you be expected to pay for health insurance if you buy it yourself?

I really need health insurance, but my employer doesn't provide it. The only solution that I can think of is to buy my own health insurance. I am worried about money but I know that I really need health insurance! What is a ballpark estimate of how much it could cost? I live in North Carolina.
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Somewhere between $50 and $500 per month. It depends on your age, zip code, BMI, health, etc.... I have a tool on my site that will compare health insurance costs in North Carolina. It's free and requires NO personal information to use.
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What alternatives are there for an individual health insurance plan?

My husband pays $600.00 per month for my health insurance coverage. This is way too much. We make too much to apply for Medicaid.
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Medical Discount Plan ideal for those who cannot afford or qualify for traditional health insurance. The companies offer discounted health services for a quite low monthly fee. Benefits include a range of discounts for doctors, hospitals, dental, vision, prescriptions, vitamins, as well as other health services. Short Term Medical Plans This plan is ideal for individuals in transition. Maybe you have just graduated from college and are no longer covered under your student health insurance or you moved out on your own, and you're no longer covered under your parents' medical insurance plan. Or perhaps you're employed part-time, going to school, leaving home for the first time, or even retiring early. Maybe you've found a new job, but your new employer's group health insurance plan won't kick in until you've been with months. Common situation you met like many other people,be patient,and check the resource here    www.HealthInsuranceIdeas.info    i found very useful for me to solve my similiar problem.
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Do any insurance companies offer mental health insurance, independant of any other type of coverage?

I suffer from ADD, and in the past I've had to look for general health insurance just to cover the costs of my psychiatric appointments and prescriptions. Are there any policies which exclusively offer mental health coverage, and nothing else?
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I personally never heard of separate insurance for mental health. But, if you apply at a community behavioral health facility, and qualify, you can get free mental health. I get my medical health free, which includes the Psychiatrist visits, medications, therapy, support groups, and also hospital stays if I need to go to the behavioral health ward. Check your phone book, or look up mental health facilities online, and check them out. There is help out there, if you can't afford it out of your own pocket. good luck in your search. realme1960
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Is there a good pet health insurance out there?

My husband and I recently took in a boxer mix. I think he may be about a year old. We dont know if he has had shots or anything. We are a low income family but, our girls really love this dog so giving him up is out of the question. We can barely afford our health costs let alone a dog. If you know of a good cheap but reliable health insurance policy or carrier let me know.
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I have VPI, Veterinary Pet Insurance. It has been very helpful for one of my dogs, who has had many health issues over the past several years. It does not pay all the costs, but it helps with just about everything. There is a $50 deductible per illness. They have limits and so you will pay the difference out of pocket. How much you pay out of pocket depends on how expensive your vet is. I have the Premium coverage and would recommend that. In my experience, most vets want their money at the time of service, are not willing to reduce costs of take payments. My vets demand payment at the time of service, then VPI reimburses me for at least part of the costs. If you have a more agreeable vet, you can have the insurance paid directly to them and then pay the balance later. I wouldn't be without it! You never know when you will need it. My one dog has cost a fortune in vet bills and it has been very helpful to have the insurance. Additionally, I am finding that when faced with long term medications, I can save money by searching the web for sources other than my vet's office.
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Do any insurance companies offer mental health insurance, independant of any other type of coverage?

I suffer from ADD, and in the past I've had to look for general health insurance just to cover the costs of my psychiatric appointments and prescriptions. Are there any policies which exclusively offer mental health coverage, and nothing else?
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I personally never heard of separate insurance for mental health. But, if you apply at a community behavioral health facility, and qualify, you can get free mental health. I get my medical health free, which includes the Psychiatrist visits, medications, therapy, support groups, and also hospital stays if I need to go to the behavioral health ward. Check your phone book, or look up mental health facilities online, and check them out. There is help out there, if you can't afford it out of your own pocket. good luck in your search. realme1960
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where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

I need to get health insurance for me and my 1 year old daughter. I am planning on becoming, or possibly already am pregnant but need insurance for us. Any help? This is in CT, so it is a state that does not require individual policies to cover pregnancy.
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There are many web sites online that offer health insurance quotes you can compare with no obligation. Some health insurance plans may include coverage for pregnancy. You want to check with the plan when requesting your quotes. Ask about pre-existing conditions coverage in the health plan and how your coverage and deductibles are applied to pregnancy - What exactly is covered. This way you won't be surprised when you need the coverage during your pregnancy. You want to make sure you understand the coverages offered, coverage limits, deductibles, co-pays, and exclusions for any pre-existing conditions. I recommend the two top-rated health insurance quote providers: 1) InsureMe - they give you the five best health insurance quotes from top-rated health insurers nationwide. To Request a free, no obligation quote, Go to - http://www.insureme.com/landing.aspx?Ref… 2) eHealthinsurance.com offers you side-by-side quote comparisons from a large network of health insurers across the country. I hope that helps! Take care and best of luck!
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Do any insurance companies offer mental health insurance, independant of any other type of coverage?

I suffer from ADD, and in the past I've had to look for general health insurance just to cover the costs of my psychiatric appointments and prescriptions. Are there any policies which exclusively offer mental health coverage, and nothing else?
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www.insuranceclickhere.com
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How can i get affordable health insurance, with a low income?

I work part time,i am physically disabled ,my husb is unemployable,rejected from disability, i have very bad health condition and need health insurance to continue dr.care....How can i get affordable health insurance that won't cost me a fortune? I have gone to the DPA and i was rejected by them. I suffer with depression/(diagnosed bi-polar) ,,disc disease,IBS....i must obtain medical Insurance to continue treatment in order to continue working...how can i get help?
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Health care could be as easy as contacting your state assistance employees. For meds you should contact the companys who make that specific drug. They have discounted if not free for those who apply. Councelling services - call around and explain your situation they might discount your rate if not give free sessions. They have a percentage of cases they need to do for free. Contact a lawyer due to being rejected disability. You need some legal help to force some issues.
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How much is health insurance for a dog? Is it worth it and what exactly does a basic plan cover?

Just out of curiousity, I was wondering about health insurance for a dog. I have heard about it and wondered what exactly it covered, such as basic vet visits, or if it was more for accidents that may occur with your pet. Do you think it is worth it?
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Each company has different "plans" Some are basic, and cover specific, emergency type issues only and may cost around 10.00/month. You can get premium plans that may be around 50-60/month but include rebates for annual checkup/vaccines/spay/neuter, etc etc. I've worked at an emergency vet clnic for 10 years. In my opinion, is it worth it? Yes, definitely. Even if it's just the basic plan. Unless you can ensure you will have funds available in the event of an emergency at all times or plan to set a bit of money aside each month in a separate account. Insurance allows you to get the best recommended treatment without having to compromise your pets' health. You may feel better being able to afford doing all you can for your pet testing wise in an emergency situation. Now, that being said, most companies make you pay the veterinarian first, who in turn fills out a claim form, and then you are reimbursed. I'm not sure which area you are in, but call your local vet clinic and they can recommend a couple of good companies for you to research. Good luck!
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How do I go about getting health insurance?

I work, but I work part time, I have alot going on right now in my life so I don't have time for a full time job. I may be pragrant but I'm not 100% sure yet. So how do I go about getting health insurance? I'm 19 years old, (I know too young to have a child and so forth, but please, I just need to know about the health insurance) Thanks in advance. Oh and I live in Baltimore, Maryland, if that helps.
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First of, health insurance isn't going to cover your pregnancy if you are already pregnant when you get the insurance. Since you only work part time, your best option is to go to your counties health & human services department and get on state assistance. If you are pregnant, you should qualify for help.
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What types of health insurance plan are there?

There are two types of health insurance that I know of. Indemnity (fee for service or traditional) and manged care (like HMOs). What are the differences between the two and what types of plans are listed under these two groups?
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The are also PPOs (preferred provider organizations) and POS (point of sale). The HMO is the most restrictive as far as networks, then come the POS, PPO, and Indemnity is the most open as well as the most expensive. Here are the basics, for more detail and to find the best plan for you visit a local independent agent. With an HMO you must use a doctor in the network and must get a referral from the primary care doctor to see a specialists. The PPO also has a network but you don't need a referral and can go outside of the network if you desire, however, your costs will be higher. The POS is a blend of the HMO and PPO. There is a network and you must get a referral if you see a specialists but you can go outside of the network. The indemnity has the most freedom because there is no network and you don't need any referrals.
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What role do health insurance companies play in helping a society stay healthy?

Could a society exist where there is no such thing as a health insurance company?
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They don't which is why we need health care reform, not a national health care plan. As a society, we are sick. Obesity, smoking, diabetes, high risk pregnancy and other preventable diseases are eating our health care dollars up and yet, doing nothing to cure the problem. This continued bleeding of health care dollars is leaving nothing for those catastrophic diseases that can't be prevented and leaving American citizens to die because they can't afford health care. You can pour all the money you want into taking care of the catastrophic illnesses however, if you don't find a cure for society and those preventable diseases, you will never have enough health care dollars available.
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How do I save money on health insurance and auto insurance?

I have 2 kids and 3 cars. Is there any way I can reduce the health insurance and car insurance price???
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You can try and raise the deductibles
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