Actually, there are quite a few health care plans in Pa that will help without putting a huge dent in your budget. If you are currently uninsured, and are in reasonably good health, you should be able to qualify for an underwritten plan. Since preventive coverage is included in the vast majority of plans, a great "starter" policy would be a simple policy that covers the big expenses only. It provides rich benefits for big claims and keeps the cost within your budget.
Plans like this are typically the least expensive option and when you view plans on reputable websites (as mentioned above), you can usually view them at the top of the screen. You will notice deductibles between $3,000 and $10,000 and often limited office visit and RX benefits. But if you have no serious medical isuues, it may be a big budget-saver.
If you have existing medical conditions and previously have been turned down, the State Open Enrollment plan has very good prices (under $300 per month) and after 2014, your health history will not be a factor in the underwriting of a policy. And regardless of how large or small your business is, that factor alone may be a big money-saver. However, after March, this program will not be available.
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| Save Money With A Pa HSA |
Often referred to as a "catastrophic" policy, your premium will be low and you'll be protecting the most important thing- the big unexpected claim. You never know when an illness or injury can occur or the amount of money that will be needed for treatment. And since your yearly annual physical is covered, you'll be encouraged to utilize it to stay in good health. You can choose many different plan options that will provide low premiums with higher risk or vice verse.
The Blue Cross (Blue Shield) plans in your area are always a good place to start. For example, if you live in Lebanon or Lancaster, Capital Blue Cross offers some very attractive plan options. There are many PPO plans that feature low premiums. A prescription rider can be added to many of the plans. A higher deductible such as $5,000 will help the premium reduce, although many other lower choices are offered as well. In the middle of the state, Geisinger should also be considered. The Network is not very large outside of the area, but if you rarely travel, it's a nice plan.
Other Blue Cross plans can be purchased in other areas. Independence Blue Cross is available in the Philadelphia area and Highmark plans are great plans to consider in the Western part of the state. Northeastern Blue Cross also offers coverage in that part of the state. For many self-employed individuals and small business owners, BC and BCBS plans are great places to start when searching for new coverage. They have big networks that tend to discount treatment very heavily.
A Health Savings Account should also be considered if cutting costs and reducing premiums is a priority. In addition to tax deductions, a savings element is included to go along with lower premiums. While an HSA should be researched before purchasing, they still remain on of the most popular plans today. You have a much broader control over the way your expenses are paid and what type of treatment you receive. And of course, most importantly, how much you are spending for your healthcare.
