FAQ for Health Insurance Quotes


Question:
There Are Several Different Types Of Health Insurance, Which Is Right For Me?

Answer:
The three basic types are Traditional Health Insurance, Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).

Traditional Health Insurance (Fee-for-Service):

Traditional health insurance is the oldest form of health care coverage. Also known as 'Fee-for-Service' insurance, each claim is paid to your medical providers less the portion you are required to meet. It is very straightforward and provides you with the greatest flexibility. Typically, you may choose any doctor and hospital. You are able to change doctors without risking being penalized with added deductibles or lower coinsurance.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO):

Health Maintenance Organizations, also known as HMOs, are new to the marketplace. This type of coverage was developed to help fight rising health care costs and provide consumers with preventative health care measures. First, you must choose a 'Gatekeeper Physician' from a specified listing of health care providers. Typically, he/she is your family doctor, and is responsible for coordinating your medical care by utilizing a network of physicians and facilities. Services such as physicals, flu shots, mammograms and well baby care have proven to help prevent serious illness, or allow for the diagnosis of diseases during an early treatable stage. However, there are drawbacks to this program. Your freedom of choice is limited to the network of physicians and facilities approved by the insurance company. Should you develop a serious health condition that you feel would best be treated outside of the HMO network; you must seek approval to receive care from a non-network doctor/hospital. If the HMO did not agree with your findings; you would be forced to pay for your care 'out of pocket'. If they do agree, the amount of the paid bills will be reduced by a percentage.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO):

Preferred Provider Organizations, also known as PPOs, are a blending of traditional and HMO insurance coverage. You are provided with much more freedom to coordinate your own health care. However, to receive the highest level of benefits you will still need to utilize the pre-approved network of physicians and facilities. Should you opt for coverage outside of the network you will be required to pay a higher deductible and/or coinsurance amounts. In addition, you will pay higher premiums for a PPO than those of an HMO.

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ASAP Quotes believes that informed consumers are happier consumers. If you have a question regarding health insurance, then this FAQ may be of help to you.