When it comes to health insurance, it can be a very frustrating and time consuming decision. All of the information out there can be get rather confusing and intimidating. However, it is critical to seek education on this topic because it can be a very important decision to make. This article provides several valuable tips that can help you make the best decisions.
Ask your employer about any existing employee wellness program. More and more companies are starting to offer incentives to employees who agree to have a health and lifestyle assessment. You might be able to get lower premiums and sign up for a fitness program for instance.
Reevaluate your insurance plan during your open enrollment period to make sure you are getting the best coverage that meets your needs. What worked for you in the past might now be inadequate, especially if your health has changed or you need to add someone to your coverage. Use this time to look into your dental and vision coverage as well.
Vision Insurance
Vision insurance makess sense for you and your family, especially if anyone already has issues with vision, or eye problems run in your family. This type of insurance will take care of a portion of your examination costs plus some of the costs of glasses or contact lenses when purchased. You are not required to carry vision insurance, and it may be cheaper in the long run to not have this coverage.
Medical insurance can cut down on your taxes. Not everyone knows that premiums are deductions. The cost of covering your deductible, co-pays and prescriptions are also tax deductions. Deductions differ for taxes, depending on the state you live in, so double-check the guidelines.
When a health insurance company calls you as part of the application process, never volunteer information. Give direct answers to their questions and nothing more. Remember that the insurance companies are trying to make money, and anything you say can and will be used against you, in the form of raising premiums or denial of coverage.
Regardless of your prescription insurance plan, you can save more money at the pharmacy by requesting generic medications. Generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as brand name medications, and are available for most prescription medications.
Make the decision on a health insurance plan that is best for you. Chose from PPO, POS and HMO. Each can be significantly different than the other, so really consider each before deciding. If you like your present doctor, make sure with any policy you choose there is an option to stick with him.
Check your health insurance plan to learn about what prescriptions are going to be covered under it. Since this prescription list changes often, you should be sure to check it when you enroll again.
Though you may not be aware of it, adding your spouse onto your own health insurance policy at work can trigger fees if similar coverage is available at their own place of employment. It’s possible that it’ll be cheaper for the both of you to get insurance through your own employers, so take the time to calculate your costs in both situations.
Even with something so important and complex, you can simplify the issue by knowing what is and isn’t directly relevant to your situation. All you need to do is dedicate some time to learn about the subject. If you take advantage of the tips you’ve just read, you’ll be able to make educated decisions about your health insurance coverage.