When it comes time to compare health insurance plans to decide which one fits your needs and budget, you'll need a way to make that comparison. Here are some guidelines and considerations to help you figure out which insurer best suits your needs.
As you review each question, plan to get answers from at least two people who represent each insurer. Ask questions of:
Agents -- Particularly if you will be seeking out individual health insurance, your first contact may be an insurance agent. They can be very helpful because they often represent more than one insurer. On the other hand, since they don't work directly for one insurer, they don't always know the latest policies or changes in plans. Further, since their income is based on how many insurance plans they sell, they may not be as objective as you would like them to be.
Customer Service Representatives -- These folks work directly for the health insurers. Plan to get some preliminary information from them, but always double check their responses. In the past few years I have heard dozens of complaints from patients who were told one thing by one CSR, only to be given a different answer by someone else.
Human Resources Staff -- These folks work for your employer, and are a good place to start for basic information. However, you'll want to confirm whatever information they provide you, either by material you are given in writing, or by calling the insurer's customer service rep.
Now that you know who to talk to, here are the questions and considerations you'll want to make.
