How does health insurance work - when insurance premium can generally increase?

Q. If family of two have health insurance, and one of them decide to use it for couple medical procedures will insurance policy premium go up?

Please advice.

Thanks.

A. No. The premiums will not go up for that. Usually health insurance is up for renewal once a year and the cost increases at that time, but not just because you use your policy. The cost of group health insurance where I work has had double digit increases in the premiums every year for 10 years now. The health insurance companies are out of control.

If you have insurance and need health care - go get the care you need. Check out this site, if you want to find the cheapest health insurance just in one minute,

http://cheap-health-insurance-usa.blogspot.com/

Here you can get free quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an afforable health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

How does health insurance work - when insurance premium can generally increase?

Q. If family of two have health insurance, and one of them decide to use it for couple medical procedures will insurance policy premium go up?

Please advice.

Thanks.

A. No. The premiums will not go up for that. Usually health insurance is up for renewal once a year and the cost increases at that time, but not just because you use your policy. The cost of group health insurance where I work has had double digit increases in the premiums every year for 10 years now. The health insurance companies are out of control.

If you have insurance and need health care - go get the care you need.

Original Question

What health insurance plans cover the most patients in Indiana?

Q. Who are the top 6 health insurance plans in Indiana in terms of number of patients covered? I believe Anthem is number one?

A. Health insurance can be very tricky. Since I live in Michigan I'm not sure about Indiana laws and regulations, so I recommend you call a local insurance agent. http://www.goodinternetdeals.com/Health-Insurance.html They should be able to help you.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

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What happens to your insurance if you have a lifelong disease, and you change insurance providers?

Q. I was curious about how that would play through. Most insurance companies will not take you on as a customer if you have a pre-existing condition. (since it's hard to make money off say, a diabetic.) If your insurance is through your work and you change jobs, what happens? Since most of the time your insurance is dropped when you leave a job, i imagine it would be VERY tough for someone with AIDS, Cancer etc. to find another insurance provider.

A. If your insurance is through your work, and you have continuous coverage, the new group carrier is not allowed to exclude coverage for preexisting conditions. They're "on the hook" for it, same as the old carrier was.

Even if you have aids or cancer or diabetes.

Original Question

What happens when the health care coverage starts and everyone with cancer and rare diseases with no insurance?

Q. who were previously denied treatment due to preexisting condition restrictions now have life-time comprehensive medical coverage which will cost millions per individual, billions looking at a larger picture?

Do the death panels/bioethics committees tell them no we can't treat you?

I'm having a little trouble understanding the financial aspects of how the US is going to cover every single US citizens rare or expensive disorder/disease when in the past they had no options due to cost also assuming they can't deny them coverage based on a preexisting condition. Any ideas?
Mutt, as I understand even if you can afford coverage, you still have the option of using the universal health care given you pay into it and it may be more comprehensive than the private coverage most pay for.

A. Well that was the whole point behind the healthcare plans Obama supported. Its the ugly truth that Republicans don't want you to know.

About 40% of Americans do not have and cannot afford health insurance. This rate is growing.

If you are wealthy or have employment that has group insurance that is affordable, you can get covered on devastating illnesses; but for the rest of Americans, they'd have to sell off everything they owned to get some coverage and most would STILL not be able to pay for it.

There is a article today that discusses just that; how most cancer patients put off care because they cannot afford the treatments.

It comes down to this. How lucky will you be that you won't ever need these treatments?

Original Question

What are some ways to prevent high blood pressure and heart disease if it is hereditary?

Q. My mom and dad suffer from high blood pressure,high cholesterol. It run on both sides of the family,that along with diabetes and heart disease. My mom started taking blood pressure medication young,in her later 20's. My dad suffered from a stroke due to high blood pressure. I am 22yrs old and do not want to suffer this especially while young. Are there any ways I can be proactive about not suffering from those conditions now and later on in life being that it is hereditary? Or do I not have a chance in preventing it?

A. Keep your weight down through diet and exercise. And don't have stress in your life. That is all you can do.

If the heart disease has been mostly in one form, then consider testing for it now while there are no symptoms. It might provide problems getting health insurance, but you will be able to take steps to limit future problems. And vote democrat to ease the future insurance coverage problem as republicans are against people with heart disease getting insurance.

If you have a heredity disease it will probably already be detectable. Some forms of cardiomyopathy will appear in the late teens. Many highschool athletes have died from it. How quickly it advances depends in part on your lifestyle.

Original Question

What will insurance cover with a preexisting health condition and new pregnancy?

Q. I have a preexisting health condition (Graves Disease) and might be pregnant. What will my carrier cover and how do I find out? Will I need a lawyer to help me sort it out with them?

A. You will have to call your insurance company and find out what they cover.

You don't need a lawyer, to find out what they cover. That's a waste of your money. All you have to do is call them.

There are thousands of different plans out there, so no one here could possibly guess what YOUR plan covers.

Original Question

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Is your healthy insurance premium tax deductible? Is it better to do a group plan or individual plans?

Q. I have a small company with three employees - is it better we get a group health insurance plan or all get individual plans? what are the tax benefits? I was told you can deduct more of the premiums if you are a company rather than an individual?

A. I have been a tax accountant for 27 years. I do not have enough information to give you a reliable answer to your question. However, you should look into a relatively new tax development called the HRA or HSA. Your bank should be able to provide you with information as to how these plans work. They are very flexible and work only when people purchase high-deductible health plans. The HRA or HSA accounts are used to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses (but not the insurance premiums) such as your deductible or co-pays under the plan. They are like IRA accounts for your health. I like them a lot. Please don't be a fool; consult a tax professional. You are in a very complicated area of tax law.

Original Question

am I going to loose my healthy insurance because of the elections?

Q. that's what I keep thinking.
Im stupid when it comes to politics.
but that whole stay on your parents insurance in till your 26 thing.
am I about to loose that?

A. Republicans have stated a goal is to repeal the health insurance law that recently passed. However, even if they did Obama would veto it and they don't have the votes to override the veto.
More likely they will not fund certain portions of it, but since this mandate doesn't really need funding it would not be effected. So I guess the answer is no.

Original Question

I am 19 and i need to get my wisdom teeth taken out asap! but i don't have dental insurance?

Q. I had healthy families insurance but since i turned 19, it got canceled. I'm a student at ucla and i have health insurance but no dental plan and recently my wisdom teeth have been a nightmare. Does anyone know an affordable dental insurance that help me out in this situation? Thank you so much for the help!

A. You can check out local universities in addition to ucla to see if you would be able to qualify for for either low cost or free treatment.

You can also check out a discount dental plan. They are actually a great way to save for students. some are just $6.95 per month. If a general dentist does the work, it could cut up to about 50% off the typical fee for your area, but if a oral surgeon does it then its only about 20% (which for $6.95 still saves quite a bit).

Most of the time wisdom teeth can be taken out by both general dentists or specialists, it depends on the complexity. For example when my sister had hers out our general dentist was able to do that. When it came time for me to get my wisdom teeth out, all four were impacted, and so he referred me to a oral surgeon.

If you do want to checkout a dental plan, look at www.emergencydentalplan.com. They are one of the few who allow you to pay for the plan monthly, most require a years payment at a time.

Again check out both options, and especially ucla to see if you can have the work done there, because that may be a great deal.

Hope that helps.

Original Question

Do you have to be on a health plan for a certain period of time in order to get Cobra?

Q. I live in NY and have been on NY's Healthy NY insurance plan for years because my previous employer did not offer medical coverage. I started a new job the beginning of the year and have just enrolled in their health plan but the plan will not actually go into effect until April 1. I'm currently looking for another job (hate this job) so I'm trying to find out if there's a minimum amount of time you need to have been on an employer's plan in order to qualify for Cobra. Say I get another job and start mid-April, that would mean I've only been on my current employer's plan for say 2 weeks. Would I still be able to get Cobra coverage for this plan?

A. The only requirement is you must be on the group policy at the time of termination. It doesn't matter if it was 1 day.

Not all employers are subject to COBRA regulations. If your current policy has fewer than 20 lives you won't be offered COBRA.

If eligible, COBRA will be offered to you and you'll receive the paperwork within 45 days. You'll have 60 days to elect COBRA. The premium will be your portion, the employer's portion, plus a 2% admin fee.

Original Question

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My Healthy Families insurance is stopping when I turn 19, what are my other insurance options?

Q. I have Healthy Families insurance, but it ends when I turn 19, I thought I still get it till I'm 20 because I'm a dependent on my parent's tax returns.
What other insurance options are there for people older than 18 and low income, but who are a dependent on their parent's tax returns?

Thanks in advance.

A. If you�re in college, you can check with yours to see if they have deals with any companies.

If you�re not in college, I would suggest looking for a full time job with benefits. You can do this even if you are in college � I managed to do both full time.

If neither of those is an option, you can look into your state�s Medicaid program, but they will consider your parent�s income if they support you.

Original Question

Will the H1N1 virus be available to those without insurance?

Q. I recently lost my healthy insurance coverage when I turned 23. I fall into the category of people who really need to be first in line to get it. I am 23, and I have asthma. I havent had a cold in 2 years and it's been years since I've had an asthma attack but still...I also work in a mall. I'm really scared that they won't give it to me. Does anyone know anything. Please help.

Thanks

A. The shot is free to everyone in the US; however, some places may charge anywhere from $5 to $20 to administer the shot.

Original Question

Whats the cost of living in New York for two months?

Q. Hi! I´m traveling to New York and I´d like to know how much will I need per month. My apartment is already rent and my tuitions too. I also have healthy insurance, so it wont be a cost. I´ll need money only to transport and food (lunch and dinner).
Thanks a lot!

A. As long as your housing, etc. is all paid for, you can live decently cheap in NYC if you know where to go and what to do. I have no problems living off $15 per day, including drinks, food and fun.

Try eating falafel, usually $2.50 and you're full. Buy your own food and cook. Maybe eat Ramen every once and a while. Order your groceries from Fresh Direct. Go to the free museums like the MET and the Natural History Museum (They only ask for a donation). Spend a lot of time walking around and people watching. Hit up happy hour for drinks. There are plenty that have $1 drafts until 6pm and many times free food at the bar until 7pm. Spend most of your time in Greenwich Village and stay away from the tourist traps in Midtown.

This site is about saving money in NYC. You may want to check it out. But, if you budget well, you can easily live off os $10 - 20 per day, depending how frugal you are. I even had a friend who made it on $5 per day.

http://www.CheapInTheCity.com

Good luck!

Original Question

Could I get healthy insurance through my boyfriend's benefits?

Q. We have lived together for over a year now and a couple people have told me I should be able to be under his healthy insurance if he received it from work, or viceversa. Is this true? We live in NC I don't know if that would make a difference.
haha just a typo, I know it's not healthy

A. Only if his employers plan allows shack ups to qualify for health insurance. However, very few employers pay for this.

Not what you want to hear....but the way to get on your boyfriends health plan....is to become his wife.

Live in girlfriends do not have the same legal rights as a wife.

Original Question

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How does health insurance work - when insurance premium can generally increase?

Q. If family of two have health insurance, and one of them decide to use it for couple medical procedures will insurance policy premium go up?

Please advice.

Thanks.

A. No. The premiums will not go up for that. Usually health insurance is up for renewal once a year and the cost increases at that time, but not just because you use your policy. The cost of group health insurance where I work has had double digit increases in the premiums every year for 10 years now. The health insurance companies are out of control.

If you have insurance and need health care - go get the care you need.

Original Question

What health insurance plans cover the most patients in Indiana?

Q. Who are the top 6 health insurance plans in Indiana in terms of number of patients covered? I believe Anthem is number one?

A. Health insurance can be very tricky. Since I live in Michigan I'm not sure about Indiana laws and regulations, so I recommend you call a local insurance agent. http://www.goodinternetdeals.com/Health-Insurance.html They should be able to help you.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Will the H1N1 virus be available to those without insurance?

Q. I recently lost my healthy insurance coverage when I turned 23. I fall into the category of people who really need to be first in line to get it. I am 23, and I have asthma. I havent had a cold in 2 years and it's been years since I've had an asthma attack but still...I also work in a mall. I'm really scared that they won't give it to me. Does anyone know anything. Please help.

Thanks

A. The shot is free to everyone in the US; however, some places may charge anywhere from $5 to $20 to administer the shot.

Original Question

Whats the cost of living in New York for two months?

Q. Hi! I´m traveling to New York and I´d like to know how much will I need per month. My apartment is already rent and my tuitions too. I also have healthy insurance, so it wont be a cost. I´ll need money only to transport and food (lunch and dinner).
Thanks a lot!

A. As long as your housing, etc. is all paid for, you can live decently cheap in NYC if you know where to go and what to do. I have no problems living off $15 per day, including drinks, food and fun.

Try eating falafel, usually $2.50 and you're full. Buy your own food and cook. Maybe eat Ramen every once and a while. Order your groceries from Fresh Direct. Go to the free museums like the MET and the Natural History Museum (They only ask for a donation). Spend a lot of time walking around and people watching. Hit up happy hour for drinks. There are plenty that have $1 drafts until 6pm and many times free food at the bar until 7pm. Spend most of your time in Greenwich Village and stay away from the tourist traps in Midtown.

This site is about saving money in NYC. You may want to check it out. But, if you budget well, you can easily live off os $10 - 20 per day, depending how frugal you are. I even had a friend who made it on $5 per day.

http://www.CheapInTheCity.com

Good luck!

Original Question

Could I get healthy insurance through my boyfriend's benefits?

Q. We have lived together for over a year now and a couple people have told me I should be able to be under his healthy insurance if he received it from work, or viceversa. Is this true? We live in NC I don't know if that would make a difference.
haha just a typo, I know it's not healthy

A. Only if his employers plan allows shack ups to qualify for health insurance. However, very few employers pay for this.

Not what you want to hear....but the way to get on your boyfriends health plan....is to become his wife.

Live in girlfriends do not have the same legal rights as a wife.

Original Question

Which healthy insurance company is good to go with?

Q. I think I'm paying too much for my insurance with little coverage right now, so I'm checking around to see what other good health insurance companies are available to switch over.

Please give me some recommendations. Thanks.
sorry, the headline should be which health insurance, not healthy.... :-)

A. Depends on what state you live in. Try Cigna. Or Blue Cross.

Original Question

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Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

What is individual and family health insurance?

Q. I am planning to have family health insurance in these days but I want to understand the basic difference between individual and family health insurance.

A. Individual and family health insurance is a type of health insurance coverage that is made available to individuals and families, rather than to employer groups or organizations. Given the option, most people would prefer to have their employer provide group health insurance coverage. But, if this is not an option for you, it is still important for you to seek coverage. You may be pleasantly surprised with the variety and affordability of the individual and family health insurance options available.
try http://CheapInsurance.Tk

Original Question

Where can i find a good health insurance to pay for eye surgery?

Q. Well I do not have health insurance and I was just wondering? Does anyone know of a good health insurance that would pay a large sum of money if I do get this surgery?

A. I don't know if you'll be able to get Health Insurance with a pre-existing condition but you can always try the National Eye Institute, which supports eye research, they dont help individuals pay for eye care, however, if you are in need of financial aid to assess or treat an eye problem, you might find one or more programs at their site below:

http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.asp

Also, getting quoted is free so you have nothing to lose by shopping around, these http://moneysavecenter.com/health/ will compare 12 carriers filling out just the one form so I saves a lot of time.
Hope you find something!

Original Question

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How does health insurance work in the US?

Q. I am a non-US citizen and need this information to do a case.

Specifically:
1) Is health insurance compulsory for everyone?
2) What happens if someone cannot afford it?
3) In the event that a medical procedure needs to be done, does health insurance cover all the bills? Does the patient need to pay anything extra?
4) Does the patient have any say over what kind of procedure he can take? Say if 2 treatments are available for his condition, can the patient choose the more expensive treatment? And if so, is it covered by the insurance?

Thanks for reading this. Your help in answering any part of the questions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks to those who have responded so far.

I would like to further ask:

Does a health insurance contract state that it will only cover the "normal" rates for a procedure? For eg. if there are 2 possible treatments for a disease, 1 of which is more expensive but more effective than the other, will the patient only be covered by the LESS expensive one?

Or is it a case in which the patient can opt for the more expensive one and "top-up" the difference?

This is a crucial question to my understanding the case. Thanks!

A. You've asked a very broad question. There is no simple answer.

In truth, health insurance works a little differently in each state.

To answer your specific questions:
1) No, health insurance is not compulsory for everyone. If you're lucky, you are able to join a group policy at work. (If you're really lucky, it's a good policy and the employer pays at least half of it.) Some states have recently made it compulsory, but that's such a recent change that there's no clear cut answer yet for how that's going to work.

2) What happens if someone can't afford it is... they don't get it, usually. Except if your income puts you below the "poverty level", in which case you qualify for Medicaid. (In some states there are programs that typically provide assistance with insuring children, though they are few and far between for covering adults.)

3) Health insurance rarely covers all the bills when you have a procedure done. Most plans cover 50-80% after you meet your deductible. The deductible amounts vary widely (but the trend is that the deductibles are getting higher and higher to keep the premiums down.) If you're really, REALLY lucky, you don't have a deductible (which is only an option on group plans), and you may only have to pay 10% of covered charges. (These plans are few and far between. As in, you might have them if you're in Congress.)

4) Yes, the patient has some say over procedures. However, if the patient opts for an "experimental" procedure, or one that isn't deemed "medically necessary", then health insurance may refuse to cover any charges at all.

In the end, as with most things, the middle class takes the brunt of these costs. This has become such a problem that more than 50% of all bankruptcies are as a result of medical bills (and of those, more than 75% had health insurance.)

** Edited to add:
It's not ALL about the money when a procedure is involved. If it is, the state keeps track of complaints filed on behalf of consumers with "managed care" (ie. any type of network arrangement including Preferred Provider Organizations, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Point of Service organizations -- also known as PPO, HMO, and POS) and may very well revoke a company's charter to do business in the state should the company be turning down too many legitimate claims.

However, insurance companies are sticklers for following the "standard" for medical care. This is what makes it difficult to answer your question. Because they should not deny anything that's considered standard for care in the given circumstances (should not and will not being two completely different things, of course.) And there may be several options that would be considered "standard." If the patient wants treatment that isn't yet considered "standard", they would balk. Period.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How does health insurance work - when insurance premium can generally increase?

Q. If family of two have health insurance, and one of them decide to use it for couple medical procedures will insurance policy premium go up?

Please advice.

Thanks.

A. No. The premiums will not go up for that. Usually health insurance is up for renewal once a year and the cost increases at that time, but not just because you use your policy. The cost of group health insurance where I work has had double digit increases in the premiums every year for 10 years now. The health insurance companies are out of control.

If you have insurance and need health care - go get the care you need.

Original Question

What health insurance plans cover the most patients in Indiana?

Q. Who are the top 6 health insurance plans in Indiana in terms of number of patients covered? I believe Anthem is number one?

A. Health insurance can be very tricky. Since I live in Michigan I'm not sure about Indiana laws and regulations, so I recommend you call a local insurance agent. http://www.goodinternetdeals.com/Health-Insurance.html They should be able to help you.

Original Question

How does health insurance work in the US?

Q. I am a non-US citizen and need this information to do a case.

Specifically:
1) Is health insurance compulsory for everyone?
2) What happens if someone cannot afford it?
3) In the event that a medical procedure needs to be done, does health insurance cover all the bills? Does the patient need to pay anything extra?
4) Does the patient have any say over what kind of procedure he can take? Say if 2 treatments are available for his condition, can the patient choose the more expensive treatment? And if so, is it covered by the insurance?

Thanks for reading this. Your help in answering any part of the questions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks to those who have responded so far.

I would like to further ask:

Does a health insurance contract state that it will only cover the "normal" rates for a procedure? For eg. if there are 2 possible treatments for a disease, 1 of which is more expensive but more effective than the other, will the patient only be covered by the LESS expensive one?

Or is it a case in which the patient can opt for the more expensive one and "top-up" the difference?

This is a crucial question to my understanding the case. Thanks!

A. You've asked a very broad question. There is no simple answer.

In truth, health insurance works a little differently in each state.

To answer your specific questions:
1) No, health insurance is not compulsory for everyone. If you're lucky, you are able to join a group policy at work. (If you're really lucky, it's a good policy and the employer pays at least half of it.) Some states have recently made it compulsory, but that's such a recent change that there's no clear cut answer yet for how that's going to work.

2) What happens if someone can't afford it is... they don't get it, usually. Except if your income puts you below the "poverty level", in which case you qualify for Medicaid. (In some states there are programs that typically provide assistance with insuring children, though they are few and far between for covering adults.)

3) Health insurance rarely covers all the bills when you have a procedure done. Most plans cover 50-80% after you meet your deductible. The deductible amounts vary widely (but the trend is that the deductibles are getting higher and higher to keep the premiums down.) If you're really, REALLY lucky, you don't have a deductible (which is only an option on group plans), and you may only have to pay 10% of covered charges. (These plans are few and far between. As in, you might have them if you're in Congress.)

4) Yes, the patient has some say over procedures. However, if the patient opts for an "experimental" procedure, or one that isn't deemed "medically necessary", then health insurance may refuse to cover any charges at all.

In the end, as with most things, the middle class takes the brunt of these costs. This has become such a problem that more than 50% of all bankruptcies are as a result of medical bills (and of those, more than 75% had health insurance.)

** Edited to add:
It's not ALL about the money when a procedure is involved. If it is, the state keeps track of complaints filed on behalf of consumers with "managed care" (ie. any type of network arrangement including Preferred Provider Organizations, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Point of Service organizations -- also known as PPO, HMO, and POS) and may very well revoke a company's charter to do business in the state should the company be turning down too many legitimate claims.

However, insurance companies are sticklers for following the "standard" for medical care. This is what makes it difficult to answer your question. Because they should not deny anything that's considered standard for care in the given circumstances (should not and will not being two completely different things, of course.) And there may be several options that would be considered "standard." If the patient wants treatment that isn't yet considered "standard", they would balk. Period.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

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How many millimeters is considered more than 50% periodontal bone loss?

Q. I have periodontal disease. My insurance only covers treatments for pockets where there is greater than 50% bone loss. How many millimeters in depth are pockets where is there is greater than 50% bone loss?

A. Over 4 millimeters is considered periodontal disease.

Original Question

How will insurance companies survive if they have to accept people with pre existing conditions?

Q. I believe the health reform guarantees acceptance of all individuals, even if they are being treated for cancer, aids, or other costly and deadly diseases How will insurance companies be able to take such hit in claims, we are talking millions that they presently do not have, where would they get the money to pay those claims

A. Two ways:

1. The same way as they have always survived in states that already require them to accept everyone, such as New York: By charging high prices for insurance.

2. A new way: The reform also requires everyone to get insurance in a few years, even if they are not going to use it. The insurance companies calculated that they would receive enough money from the involuntary customers who will have to pay for insurance, but will not use it, to pay for the treatment of the sick customers.

Original Question

What are transient mental disorder diseases?

Q. What are transient mental disorder diseases?
Daman Insurance advised Transient mental disorder diseases are covered under insurance however they are not providing the proper information about the diseases coming under transient mental disorders... I would appreciate if any body could provide me the above requested information at the earliest....

A. Any mental disorder that is short term... I would guess they're mainly talking a/b depression, or anxiety. I'm sure sleeping disorders would also fall into this group. Anything curable pretty much... so, if you're schizophrenic, you're probably not covered.

Original Question

What happens to your insurance if you have a lifelong disease, and you change insurance providers?

Q. I was curious about how that would play through. Most insurance companies will not take you on as a customer if you have a pre-existing condition. (since it's hard to make money off say, a diabetic.) If your insurance is through your work and you change jobs, what happens? Since most of the time your insurance is dropped when you leave a job, i imagine it would be VERY tough for someone with AIDS, Cancer etc. to find another insurance provider.

A. If your insurance is through your work, and you have continuous coverage, the new group carrier is not allowed to exclude coverage for preexisting conditions. They're "on the hook" for it, same as the old carrier was.

Even if you have aids or cancer or diabetes.

Original Question

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Whats the cost of living in New York for two months?

Q. Hi! I´m traveling to New York and I´d like to know how much will I need per month. My apartment is already rent and my tuitions too. I also have healthy insurance, so it wont be a cost. I´ll need money only to transport and food (lunch and dinner).
Thanks a lot!

A. As long as your housing, etc. is all paid for, you can live decently cheap in NYC if you know where to go and what to do. I have no problems living off $15 per day, including drinks, food and fun.

Try eating falafel, usually $2.50 and you're full. Buy your own food and cook. Maybe eat Ramen every once and a while. Order your groceries from Fresh Direct. Go to the free museums like the MET and the Natural History Museum (They only ask for a donation). Spend a lot of time walking around and people watching. Hit up happy hour for drinks. There are plenty that have $1 drafts until 6pm and many times free food at the bar until 7pm. Spend most of your time in Greenwich Village and stay away from the tourist traps in Midtown.

This site is about saving money in NYC. You may want to check it out. But, if you budget well, you can easily live off os $10 - 20 per day, depending how frugal you are. I even had a friend who made it on $5 per day.

http://www.CheapInTheCity.com

Good luck!

Original Question

Could I get healthy insurance through my boyfriend's benefits?

Q. We have lived together for over a year now and a couple people have told me I should be able to be under his healthy insurance if he received it from work, or viceversa. Is this true? We live in NC I don't know if that would make a difference.
haha just a typo, I know it's not healthy

A. Only if his employers plan allows shack ups to qualify for health insurance. However, very few employers pay for this.

Not what you want to hear....but the way to get on your boyfriends health plan....is to become his wife.

Live in girlfriends do not have the same legal rights as a wife.

Original Question

Which healthy insurance company is good to go with?

Q. I think I'm paying too much for my insurance with little coverage right now, so I'm checking around to see what other good health insurance companies are available to switch over.

Please give me some recommendations. Thanks.
sorry, the headline should be which health insurance, not healthy.... :-)

A. Depends on what state you live in. Try Cigna. Or Blue Cross.

Original Question

Is your healthy insurance premium tax deductible? Is it better to do a group plan or individual plans?

Q. I have a small company with three employees - is it better we get a group health insurance plan or all get individual plans? what are the tax benefits? I was told you can deduct more of the premiums if you are a company rather than an individual?

A. I have been a tax accountant for 27 years. I do not have enough information to give you a reliable answer to your question. However, you should look into a relatively new tax development called the HRA or HSA. Your bank should be able to provide you with information as to how these plans work. They are very flexible and work only when people purchase high-deductible health plans. The HRA or HSA accounts are used to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses (but not the insurance premiums) such as your deductible or co-pays under the plan. They are like IRA accounts for your health. I like them a lot. Please don't be a fool; consult a tax professional. You are in a very complicated area of tax law.

Original Question

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Will the H1N1 virus be available to those without insurance?

Q. I recently lost my healthy insurance coverage when I turned 23. I fall into the category of people who really need to be first in line to get it. I am 23, and I have asthma. I havent had a cold in 2 years and it's been years since I've had an asthma attack but still...I also work in a mall. I'm really scared that they won't give it to me. Does anyone know anything. Please help.

Thanks

A. The shot is free to everyone in the US; however, some places may charge anywhere from $5 to $20 to administer the shot.

Original Question

Whats the cost of living in New York for two months?

Q. Hi! I´m traveling to New York and I´d like to know how much will I need per month. My apartment is already rent and my tuitions too. I also have healthy insurance, so it wont be a cost. I´ll need money only to transport and food (lunch and dinner).
Thanks a lot!

A. As long as your housing, etc. is all paid for, you can live decently cheap in NYC if you know where to go and what to do. I have no problems living off $15 per day, including drinks, food and fun.

Try eating falafel, usually $2.50 and you're full. Buy your own food and cook. Maybe eat Ramen every once and a while. Order your groceries from Fresh Direct. Go to the free museums like the MET and the Natural History Museum (They only ask for a donation). Spend a lot of time walking around and people watching. Hit up happy hour for drinks. There are plenty that have $1 drafts until 6pm and many times free food at the bar until 7pm. Spend most of your time in Greenwich Village and stay away from the tourist traps in Midtown.

This site is about saving money in NYC. You may want to check it out. But, if you budget well, you can easily live off os $10 - 20 per day, depending how frugal you are. I even had a friend who made it on $5 per day.

http://www.CheapInTheCity.com

Good luck!

Original Question

Could I get healthy insurance through my boyfriend's benefits?

Q. We have lived together for over a year now and a couple people have told me I should be able to be under his healthy insurance if he received it from work, or viceversa. Is this true? We live in NC I don't know if that would make a difference.
haha just a typo, I know it's not healthy

A. Only if his employers plan allows shack ups to qualify for health insurance. However, very few employers pay for this.

Not what you want to hear....but the way to get on your boyfriends health plan....is to become his wife.

Live in girlfriends do not have the same legal rights as a wife.

Original Question

Which healthy insurance company is good to go with?

Q. I think I'm paying too much for my insurance with little coverage right now, so I'm checking around to see what other good health insurance companies are available to switch over.

Please give me some recommendations. Thanks.
sorry, the headline should be which health insurance, not healthy.... :-)

A. Depends on what state you live in. Try Cigna. Or Blue Cross.

Original Question

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Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

What is individual and family health insurance?

Q. I am planning to have family health insurance in these days but I want to understand the basic difference between individual and family health insurance.

A. Individual and family health insurance is a type of health insurance coverage that is made available to individuals and families, rather than to employer groups or organizations. Given the option, most people would prefer to have their employer provide group health insurance coverage. But, if this is not an option for you, it is still important for you to seek coverage. You may be pleasantly surprised with the variety and affordability of the individual and family health insurance options available.
try http://CheapInsurance.Tk

Original Question

Where can i find a good health insurance to pay for eye surgery?

Q. Well I do not have health insurance and I was just wondering? Does anyone know of a good health insurance that would pay a large sum of money if I do get this surgery?

A. I don't know if you'll be able to get Health Insurance with a pre-existing condition but you can always try the National Eye Institute, which supports eye research, they dont help individuals pay for eye care, however, if you are in need of financial aid to assess or treat an eye problem, you might find one or more programs at their site below:

http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.asp

Also, getting quoted is free so you have nothing to lose by shopping around, these http://moneysavecenter.com/health/ will compare 12 carriers filling out just the one form so I saves a lot of time.
Hope you find something!

Original Question

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What will insurance cover with a preexisting health condition and new pregnancy?

Q. I have a preexisting health condition (Graves Disease) and might be pregnant. What will my carrier cover and how do I find out? Will I need a lawyer to help me sort it out with them?

A. You will have to call your insurance company and find out what they cover.

You don't need a lawyer, to find out what they cover. That's a waste of your money. All you have to do is call them.

There are thousands of different plans out there, so no one here could possibly guess what YOUR plan covers.

Original Question

Are any of these supplements a concern for someone with kidney disease?

Q. Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)

Ginkgo Biloba
Garlic
Fish Oil
coQ-10
Baby Aspirin
Claritin or Zyrtec


And medicines Pravastatin & Lisinopril/hctz.

Thanks.

Apparently I have a 50% chance of having Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). No insurance and if I ask my Dr about it, I can never get insurance.

A. I'm not aware of any of these causing problems in compromised kidneys. Some family members of mine have igA nephropathy, and all they're told is to stop smoking, alcohol, and caffeine.

You CAN go to Canada or Mexico to get tested. If you're over 30, the tests are 100% reliable.

Original Question

Do you have to have health insurance when entering the Peace Corps?

Q. Do you have to have health insurance BEFORE entering and if you take their insurance for the Peace Corps, when does coverage begin?
So when am I covered? Will I be covered as soon as I am accepted or as soon as I step foot onto foreign soil?

A. I KIND OF THOUGHT THAT "MEDICAL TREATMENT" WAS PART OF THE "BENEFITS PACKAGE" WHICH OUR "UNCLE SAMMY" PROVIDED WITH PEACE CORP SERVICE!!!SEE: <www.peacecorps.gov> Peace Corps
Fighting hunger, disease, poverty, and lack of opportunity.www.peacecorps.gov - 46k - Cached - More from this site

Original Question

What term life insurance companies do not require your dna?

Q. I want an insurance company that won't invade our last bit of privacy - our DNA. Once they have your DNA they can make all kinds of determinations about you, health, personality, all kinds of things. Years ago reasearchers were willing to pay $5,000. US Dollars to get you to donate your very private - unique only to you dna to them. Now insurance companies get us to pay them to take it from us! Is anyone aware of a company to buy term life ins. without DNA sample?

A. Are you more worried about your privacy or more about the unknown medical disease you may have? I know people who thought they were healthy and then later found out they have cancer. There are people who have high cholesterol level and they thought they were healthy too. These medical tests are done for free at the expense of the insurance company. It can provide information about you that you are not aware about. If there's anything wrong you, at least you can start treatment to live longer.

Anyway, if you buy a small coverage of less than $50k, then the company won't do medical underwriting. If there is a company that does no medical underwriting at all and you have over $100,000 in coverage, you better read your life insurance policy. There's a high probability they won't pay. Such companies require your health to stay the same throughout the life of the policy. Knowning human conditions, your health deteriorates as you get older.

Original Question

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Can you recommend me a good health insurance?

Q. I missed out on signing up for healthy insurance where I work and I'm becoming worried that I might have to go see the doctor soon. So I'd like to get a good quality insurance. I'm 22, male, single no kids and I'm from texas. If you know of a good insurance that covers well please share. I'd like to sign up really soon. Also if you have any for dental and vision coverage that would be great! Thank you.

A. If you�re young and relatively healthy you may have some pretty affordable options when purchasing coverage on your own. Given your age, you may also be able to stay on your parents� plan. One of the provisions of health reform law allows adult children (whether or not they are in school) to stay on their parents� plan until age 26. That provision goes into effect this September. Talk to your parent�s Human Resources department to learn more.

If you want to purchase coverage on your own, however, I�d recommend working through a licensed agent. It�s not generally a good idea to make a straightforward recommendation without more information than you�ve provided here. But a licensed agent (online or off) can help you get quotes from a variety of insurers in your area and help you find the best match for your needs and budget. It doesn�t cost anything extra to work with an agent. Through our company�s site at www.ehealthinsurance.com, for example, you can compare plans in your area and read customer reviews before applying. And of course you can also talk with a licensed agent for personal help.

Whatever you choose to do, just make sure you get covered. Best of luck!

Original Question

Can you recommend a good dog health insurance?

Q. I know a lot of people don't have these but I really want to get healthy insurance for my doggie. Does anyone out there have experience with any particular companies? Was your experience good or bad? Thanks!

A. I'm glad to hear that you are looking into pet insurance for your dog!

Pet insurance is good for unexpected accidents and illnesses. They can get expensive quickly, so it's nice to have insurance to cover the costs. Pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions, so if your pet is already sick or injured, it is unlikely that pet insurance will cover the costs to treat it.

For other costs like regular exams and vaccines, it's best to self-budget since these costs are expected. Some pet insurance companies offer coverage, but it is typically not cost-effective. (Imagine paying an extra $200 per year on your premiums for $200 worth of routine coverage...)

A few good questions to ask when researching pet insurance are:
1. Does the policy cover everything? Hereditary and congenital issues?
2. What are the payout limits? Will it be enough money for my worst case scenario?
3. How much does it cover for each condition?
4. What are the pricing and deductible options?
5. Is it an ongoing policy? If my pet has an illness during my first policy year, will it be covered the next policy year?

Some plans don't pay based on your actual bill, but have lists of predetermined dollar amounts that they will pay for each condition which can be shockingly low in many cases. I would recommend getting an actual insurance plan that covers based on your bill so that you are never faced with a difficult and expensive situation when you *thought* you were covered.

We cover 90% of the actual bill for diagnostic testing, treatments, surgeries and medications including emergency and specialist visits. Trupanion is also the only provider to offer a $0 deductible option.
Feel free to give customer service a call and get a no-obligation quote to ask all the necessary questions and find out what's best for you!

Original Question

My Healthy Families insurance is stopping when I turn 19, what are my other insurance options?

Q. I have Healthy Families insurance, but it ends when I turn 19, I thought I still get it till I'm 20 because I'm a dependent on my parent's tax returns.
What other insurance options are there for people older than 18 and low income, but who are a dependent on their parent's tax returns?

Thanks in advance.

A. If you�re in college, you can check with yours to see if they have deals with any companies.

If you�re not in college, I would suggest looking for a full time job with benefits. You can do this even if you are in college � I managed to do both full time.

If neither of those is an option, you can look into your state�s Medicaid program, but they will consider your parent�s income if they support you.

Original Question

Will the H1N1 virus be available to those without insurance?

Q. I recently lost my healthy insurance coverage when I turned 23. I fall into the category of people who really need to be first in line to get it. I am 23, and I have asthma. I havent had a cold in 2 years and it's been years since I've had an asthma attack but still...I also work in a mall. I'm really scared that they won't give it to me. Does anyone know anything. Please help.

Thanks

A. The shot is free to everyone in the US; however, some places may charge anywhere from $5 to $20 to administer the shot.

Original Question

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Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

What is individual and family health insurance?

Q. I am planning to have family health insurance in these days but I want to understand the basic difference between individual and family health insurance.

A. Individual and family health insurance is a type of health insurance coverage that is made available to individuals and families, rather than to employer groups or organizations. Given the option, most people would prefer to have their employer provide group health insurance coverage. But, if this is not an option for you, it is still important for you to seek coverage. You may be pleasantly surprised with the variety and affordability of the individual and family health insurance options available.
try http://CheapInsurance.Tk

Original Question

Where can i find a good health insurance to pay for eye surgery?

Q. Well I do not have health insurance and I was just wondering? Does anyone know of a good health insurance that would pay a large sum of money if I do get this surgery?

A. I don't know if you'll be able to get Health Insurance with a pre-existing condition but you can always try the National Eye Institute, which supports eye research, they dont help individuals pay for eye care, however, if you are in need of financial aid to assess or treat an eye problem, you might find one or more programs at their site below:

http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.asp

Also, getting quoted is free so you have nothing to lose by shopping around, these http://moneysavecenter.com/health/ will compare 12 carriers filling out just the one form so I saves a lot of time.
Hope you find something!

Original Question

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Whats the cost of living in New York for two months?

Q. Hi! I´m traveling to New York and I´d like to know how much will I need per month. My apartment is already rent and my tuitions too. I also have healthy insurance, so it wont be a cost. I´ll need money only to transport and food (lunch and dinner).
Thanks a lot!

A. As long as your housing, etc. is all paid for, you can live decently cheap in NYC if you know where to go and what to do. I have no problems living off $15 per day, including drinks, food and fun.

Try eating falafel, usually $2.50 and you're full. Buy your own food and cook. Maybe eat Ramen every once and a while. Order your groceries from Fresh Direct. Go to the free museums like the MET and the Natural History Museum (They only ask for a donation). Spend a lot of time walking around and people watching. Hit up happy hour for drinks. There are plenty that have $1 drafts until 6pm and many times free food at the bar until 7pm. Spend most of your time in Greenwich Village and stay away from the tourist traps in Midtown.

This site is about saving money in NYC. You may want to check it out. But, if you budget well, you can easily live off os $10 - 20 per day, depending how frugal you are. I even had a friend who made it on $5 per day.

http://www.CheapInTheCity.com

Good luck!

Original Question

Could I get healthy insurance through my boyfriend's benefits?

Q. We have lived together for over a year now and a couple people have told me I should be able to be under his healthy insurance if he received it from work, or viceversa. Is this true? We live in NC I don't know if that would make a difference.
haha just a typo, I know it's not healthy

A. Only if his employers plan allows shack ups to qualify for health insurance. However, very few employers pay for this.

Not what you want to hear....but the way to get on your boyfriends health plan....is to become his wife.

Live in girlfriends do not have the same legal rights as a wife.

Original Question

Which healthy insurance company is good to go with?

Q. I think I'm paying too much for my insurance with little coverage right now, so I'm checking around to see what other good health insurance companies are available to switch over.

Please give me some recommendations. Thanks.
sorry, the headline should be which health insurance, not healthy.... :-)

A. Depends on what state you live in. Try Cigna. Or Blue Cross.

Original Question

Is your healthy insurance premium tax deductible? Is it better to do a group plan or individual plans?

Q. I have a small company with three employees - is it better we get a group health insurance plan or all get individual plans? what are the tax benefits? I was told you can deduct more of the premiums if you are a company rather than an individual?

A. I have been a tax accountant for 27 years. I do not have enough information to give you a reliable answer to your question. However, you should look into a relatively new tax development called the HRA or HSA. Your bank should be able to provide you with information as to how these plans work. They are very flexible and work only when people purchase high-deductible health plans. The HRA or HSA accounts are used to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses (but not the insurance premiums) such as your deductible or co-pays under the plan. They are like IRA accounts for your health. I like them a lot. Please don't be a fool; consult a tax professional. You are in a very complicated area of tax law.

Original Question

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How does health insurance work in the US?

Q. I am a non-US citizen and need this information to do a case.

Specifically:
1) Is health insurance compulsory for everyone?
2) What happens if someone cannot afford it?
3) In the event that a medical procedure needs to be done, does health insurance cover all the bills? Does the patient need to pay anything extra?
4) Does the patient have any say over what kind of procedure he can take? Say if 2 treatments are available for his condition, can the patient choose the more expensive treatment? And if so, is it covered by the insurance?

Thanks for reading this. Your help in answering any part of the questions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks to those who have responded so far.

I would like to further ask:

Does a health insurance contract state that it will only cover the "normal" rates for a procedure? For eg. if there are 2 possible treatments for a disease, 1 of which is more expensive but more effective than the other, will the patient only be covered by the LESS expensive one?

Or is it a case in which the patient can opt for the more expensive one and "top-up" the difference?

This is a crucial question to my understanding the case. Thanks!

A. You've asked a very broad question. There is no simple answer.

In truth, health insurance works a little differently in each state.

To answer your specific questions:
1) No, health insurance is not compulsory for everyone. If you're lucky, you are able to join a group policy at work. (If you're really lucky, it's a good policy and the employer pays at least half of it.) Some states have recently made it compulsory, but that's such a recent change that there's no clear cut answer yet for how that's going to work.

2) What happens if someone can't afford it is... they don't get it, usually. Except if your income puts you below the "poverty level", in which case you qualify for Medicaid. (In some states there are programs that typically provide assistance with insuring children, though they are few and far between for covering adults.)

3) Health insurance rarely covers all the bills when you have a procedure done. Most plans cover 50-80% after you meet your deductible. The deductible amounts vary widely (but the trend is that the deductibles are getting higher and higher to keep the premiums down.) If you're really, REALLY lucky, you don't have a deductible (which is only an option on group plans), and you may only have to pay 10% of covered charges. (These plans are few and far between. As in, you might have them if you're in Congress.)

4) Yes, the patient has some say over procedures. However, if the patient opts for an "experimental" procedure, or one that isn't deemed "medically necessary", then health insurance may refuse to cover any charges at all.

In the end, as with most things, the middle class takes the brunt of these costs. This has become such a problem that more than 50% of all bankruptcies are as a result of medical bills (and of those, more than 75% had health insurance.)

** Edited to add:
It's not ALL about the money when a procedure is involved. If it is, the state keeps track of complaints filed on behalf of consumers with "managed care" (ie. any type of network arrangement including Preferred Provider Organizations, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Point of Service organizations -- also known as PPO, HMO, and POS) and may very well revoke a company's charter to do business in the state should the company be turning down too many legitimate claims.

However, insurance companies are sticklers for following the "standard" for medical care. This is what makes it difficult to answer your question. Because they should not deny anything that's considered standard for care in the given circumstances (should not and will not being two completely different things, of course.) And there may be several options that would be considered "standard." If the patient wants treatment that isn't yet considered "standard", they would balk. Period.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

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What will insurance cover with a preexisting health condition and new pregnancy?

Q. I have a preexisting health condition (Graves Disease) and might be pregnant. What will my carrier cover and how do I find out? Will I need a lawyer to help me sort it out with them?

A. You will have to call your insurance company and find out what they cover.

You don't need a lawyer, to find out what they cover. That's a waste of your money. All you have to do is call them.

There are thousands of different plans out there, so no one here could possibly guess what YOUR plan covers.

Original Question

Are any of these supplements a concern for someone with kidney disease?

Q. Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)

Ginkgo Biloba
Garlic
Fish Oil
coQ-10
Baby Aspirin
Claritin or Zyrtec


And medicines Pravastatin & Lisinopril/hctz.

Thanks.

Apparently I have a 50% chance of having Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). No insurance and if I ask my Dr about it, I can never get insurance.

A. I'm not aware of any of these causing problems in compromised kidneys. Some family members of mine have igA nephropathy, and all they're told is to stop smoking, alcohol, and caffeine.

You CAN go to Canada or Mexico to get tested. If you're over 30, the tests are 100% reliable.

Original Question

Do you have to have health insurance when entering the Peace Corps?

Q. Do you have to have health insurance BEFORE entering and if you take their insurance for the Peace Corps, when does coverage begin?
So when am I covered? Will I be covered as soon as I am accepted or as soon as I step foot onto foreign soil?

A. I KIND OF THOUGHT THAT "MEDICAL TREATMENT" WAS PART OF THE "BENEFITS PACKAGE" WHICH OUR "UNCLE SAMMY" PROVIDED WITH PEACE CORP SERVICE!!!SEE: <www.peacecorps.gov> Peace Corps
Fighting hunger, disease, poverty, and lack of opportunity.www.peacecorps.gov - 46k - Cached - More from this site

Original Question

What term life insurance companies do not require your dna?

Q. I want an insurance company that won't invade our last bit of privacy - our DNA. Once they have your DNA they can make all kinds of determinations about you, health, personality, all kinds of things. Years ago reasearchers were willing to pay $5,000. US Dollars to get you to donate your very private - unique only to you dna to them. Now insurance companies get us to pay them to take it from us! Is anyone aware of a company to buy term life ins. without DNA sample?

A. Are you more worried about your privacy or more about the unknown medical disease you may have? I know people who thought they were healthy and then later found out they have cancer. There are people who have high cholesterol level and they thought they were healthy too. These medical tests are done for free at the expense of the insurance company. It can provide information about you that you are not aware about. If there's anything wrong you, at least you can start treatment to live longer.

Anyway, if you buy a small coverage of less than $50k, then the company won't do medical underwriting. If there is a company that does no medical underwriting at all and you have over $100,000 in coverage, you better read your life insurance policy. There's a high probability they won't pay. Such companies require your health to stay the same throughout the life of the policy. Knowning human conditions, your health deteriorates as you get older.

Original Question

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How does health insurance work in the US?

Q. I am a non-US citizen and need this information to do a case.

Specifically:
1) Is health insurance compulsory for everyone?
2) What happens if someone cannot afford it?
3) In the event that a medical procedure needs to be done, does health insurance cover all the bills? Does the patient need to pay anything extra?
4) Does the patient have any say over what kind of procedure he can take? Say if 2 treatments are available for his condition, can the patient choose the more expensive treatment? And if so, is it covered by the insurance?

Thanks for reading this. Your help in answering any part of the questions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks to those who have responded so far.

I would like to further ask:

Does a health insurance contract state that it will only cover the "normal" rates for a procedure? For eg. if there are 2 possible treatments for a disease, 1 of which is more expensive but more effective than the other, will the patient only be covered by the LESS expensive one?

Or is it a case in which the patient can opt for the more expensive one and "top-up" the difference?

This is a crucial question to my understanding the case. Thanks!

A. You've asked a very broad question. There is no simple answer.

In truth, health insurance works a little differently in each state.

To answer your specific questions:
1) No, health insurance is not compulsory for everyone. If you're lucky, you are able to join a group policy at work. (If you're really lucky, it's a good policy and the employer pays at least half of it.) Some states have recently made it compulsory, but that's such a recent change that there's no clear cut answer yet for how that's going to work.

2) What happens if someone can't afford it is... they don't get it, usually. Except if your income puts you below the "poverty level", in which case you qualify for Medicaid. (In some states there are programs that typically provide assistance with insuring children, though they are few and far between for covering adults.)

3) Health insurance rarely covers all the bills when you have a procedure done. Most plans cover 50-80% after you meet your deductible. The deductible amounts vary widely (but the trend is that the deductibles are getting higher and higher to keep the premiums down.) If you're really, REALLY lucky, you don't have a deductible (which is only an option on group plans), and you may only have to pay 10% of covered charges. (These plans are few and far between. As in, you might have them if you're in Congress.)

4) Yes, the patient has some say over procedures. However, if the patient opts for an "experimental" procedure, or one that isn't deemed "medically necessary", then health insurance may refuse to cover any charges at all.

In the end, as with most things, the middle class takes the brunt of these costs. This has become such a problem that more than 50% of all bankruptcies are as a result of medical bills (and of those, more than 75% had health insurance.)

** Edited to add:
It's not ALL about the money when a procedure is involved. If it is, the state keeps track of complaints filed on behalf of consumers with "managed care" (ie. any type of network arrangement including Preferred Provider Organizations, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Point of Service organizations -- also known as PPO, HMO, and POS) and may very well revoke a company's charter to do business in the state should the company be turning down too many legitimate claims.

However, insurance companies are sticklers for following the "standard" for medical care. This is what makes it difficult to answer your question. Because they should not deny anything that's considered standard for care in the given circumstances (should not and will not being two completely different things, of course.) And there may be several options that would be considered "standard." If the patient wants treatment that isn't yet considered "standard", they would balk. Period.

Original Question

What is the difference between health insurance and travel insurance?

Q. I have a health insurance plan that covers me overseas in ANY country at ANY hotel. What would be the benefit of adding medical travel insurance, if any? I only found one link pertaining to this and it said travel insurance covers personal items and what not, but not any that I could afford.

Does anyone have any experience with this?

A. Really. It pays for medical services at a HOTEL? What are the limitations?? Because they ARE there.

You will need to go to your health insurance broker, who's READ your policy, and can tell you what is NOT covered under your health insurance overseas.

Original Question

Where can i get individual health insurance for me and my daughter that also covers pregnancy in connecticut?

Q. 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.

A. 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. Try this site

http://free-health-quote.blogspot.com/

Here you can get quotes from different health insurance companies in your area, its the best way to find an individual health insurance with a reliable company.

Best Wishes,

Original Question

What is the best health insurance and cheapest that covers medical, dental and vision in Miami, FL?

Q. I am searching to find the best possible health insurance that offers the lowest rates/charges, since I am fed up with my previous one that was too expensive and did not cover may of my visits. I need the insurance that covers medical, dental and vision and that it is for Miami-Dade county, Florida. Does anyone know? Thank you very much!

A. Compare health insurance, 2insure4less:
http://compactsource.info/rdnet/2insure4less/1

Original Question

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