New Health Insurance Concerns
Quickly disappearing are the days when Health Insurance was considered not just an employment perk, but a fundamental element of being employed. Worldwide, predominantly in the United States, employer sponsored Health Insurance benefits, which covered not only the employee but also his or her entire family, has been replaced by a system wherein the individual is responsible for obtaining individual coverage. Within the new and highly expensive health care world, it is estimated that as much as 40% of the American population is not covered, or is inadequately covered, by Health Insurance.
So what are the options for individuals living, working and getting sick in this Brave New Healthcare World? The following discussion is not relevant to those over 65, retired individuals, those living below the poverty line, mothers with dependent children, and those receiving disability or social security benefits, all of whom may be eligible for limited government assistance Health Insurance programs.
For the rest of us who are employed, it is up to us to supplement or entirely carry our own Health Insurance, which is expensive and will vary according to the applicant's age, past medical history, geographic area, personal habits, such as smoking, and the type of policy desire. Many policies cover only accident and illness says in the hospital, or major medical, while others range the gamut of services, and medical checkups and physical therapy. Of course, the price will increase with the range of services included in the policy. Another cost element will be the deductible, or how much out of pocket the insured needs to pay before the insurance coverage kicks in. The rule of thumb is the higher the deductible the lower the premium cost.
There are other ways to defer the cost. Even if the employer does not carry employee Health Insurance, Human Resources will usually help the employees to form a group to get the necessary number of applicants to qualify for a group rate. This is much less expensive as it is based upon the actuarially calculated risk of illness within a group.
Another way to get a Health Insurance group rate is to join a professional organization, which usually offers group rate policies to members. Even clubs and organizations are beginning to take part in this trend. If none of these options work for you, try forming your own group of like-minded individuals. Usually, as few as 25 adults will quality for a group rate and they can have in common being relatives or neighbours, members of the same church or synagogue or fans of the same sporting team.
by Sally.Anderson 19 years ago