>Keep in mind there is no “best” health insurance plan. Every family has its own unique needs and those needs can change.

By studying your health insurance options carefully, you will be able to select the plan that provides the best coverage for your needs.

How To Identify Your Needs

A plan that is good for a single individual may not be the best choice for a family. If both you and your spouse can get group health coverage through your employer, find out how to get the best coverage least expensively. You may find that individual coverage for two individuals is less expensive than employee and spouse coverage. Determine what is more important to you — the freedom to choose any physician or health-care provider or the opportunity to save money.

Shopping For Health Insurance

Because premiums and benefits can vary widely, shop carefully.

• If you and family members to be covered are in generally good health, lower your premium by taking a higher deductible.
• Choose a guaranteed renewable policy. The company can raise your premiums but cannot cancel the policy as long as you pay the premium.
• Make sure the plan covers physician services and hospitalization.
• Verify that there is a “free look” clause. With most companies you have at least 10 days to examine the plan after you receive the policy. If you are dissatisfied, you can return it for a premium refund.
• Check policy exclusions carefully. Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions for at least some period of time. Plan ahead so that coverage starts when you want it to. Most insurance companies will require a mini-physical, review of your medical records, or both before issuing a policy.
  This process can take up to 4-6 month.