Medical Insurance Guide
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When the Temporary Goes A Long Way
from: InsuranceDealTime.comIn the world of health insurance where a good long term health care insurance is hard to find (not to mention, process), the best way to go is to ensure yourself through temporary or short term health insurance. So while waiting for that permanent coverage to be signed and stamped, you can free yourself from the worries of medical treatment and expenses and its financial implications with your short-term health insurance.
The ABCS's of Short-term Health Insurance
Short-term health plans provide you with a low-cost alternative in case of accidents or injuries or sudden illness. As a temporary solution, the policy typically covers a month to 12 months. Some plans have a coverage that is good for 36 months. It can be renewed or bought on a monthly basis so it's convenient and flexible especially if one would like to end the insurance coverage. Most companies also offer a 30 day guarantee period and allows for a 100% refund of the premium should you decide to withdraw.
Temporary health insurance covers surgery costs, hospital care, emergency services, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, follow-up visit and consultation expenses of a disease or injury experienced for the first time within the policy period. It does not, however, cover pre-existing conditions, illness or symptoms of the last three years. It also does not cover routine preventive care like physical exams and immunizations.
Short term health insurance is good for the individual who is between jobs and those who were laid off from their jobs. Part-time and temporary employees can also apply for a temporary health insurance. It's also good for students, college graduates still looking for a job and those who not covered by their parents' insurance policy once they reach the age of 18. Discharged military personnel or those who opted for early retirement can also apply for a short-term health insurance while waiting to qualify for Medicare. This insurance plan does not cover people with pre-existing health conditions, those engaged in risky sports and physical activities, as well as pregnant women.
What Else You Need To Know
The best attraction of the short-term health insurance is the low premium one has to pay to be covered. The reason for this is because the company does not pay for pre-existing conditions because of the low-risk characteristic of the group, thus very few people will have claims, allowing the company to save up on the premiums. Deductibles are made per illness and once the patient or the victim has met his policy's deductible, the company pays portion by portion until they pay the 100% coverage. An added attraction is that many companies allow for a monthly payment arrangement, while some even offer discounts for single payments.
With the internet and the hundreds of insurance companies in the market, it is best to find the best deal. Compare prices and benefits. If you have a family or a partner, one option is to go for a joint of a family policy than individual temporary policies which may be more costly than the former.
Lastly, make sure you check the terms and conditions of your temporary health insurance. Your plan should allow you to visit any doctor and hospital of your choice. You can also add prescriptions to your policy if needed.
It may not be permanent, but it sure could save you from a lot of trouble. Better be safe than sorry.
Hawaii Medical Insurance News