As America continues to cut costs, many Americans will look for health insurance. There are many health plans available that can be affordable, fit your needs and provide the protection you need.
Consider your specific needs. Which types of coverage are most important for you? Are you or your family members a regular user of prescriptions? When choosing the right health plan, it is important to determine how much coverage you require.
Learn the lingo. Insurers are striving to use more user-friendly language. It is important that you understand the pros and cons of a high deductible plan tied with a health savings account. This will allow you to make informed decisions about which hospitals and doctors are available.
Access when you need it. Many insurance companies work hard to ensure that customers have the right information about their health when they are needed.
* Use of understandable consumer-friendly language
* Access to customer call centers and nurse hotlines 24/7, 365 days a year, giving constant access to a nurse or person to help solve a claims issue
* Online tools to search for claims information and check for benefit qualifications, co-pays, and deductibles
* Tools to compare prices on the drugs you need, helping find the best prices available
Plan your annual appointment. Regular checkups can prevent problems from developing or detect conditions early. This will save you money.
What to look for “extras.”Many insurance companies offer discounts on programs like smoking cessation, weight loss and memberships to fitness clubs.
It is important to choose the right plan for you. You can feel confident in choosing the best plan for you. Check out report cards for different plans on the National Committee for Quality Assurance’s Web site, available at http://reportcard.ncqa.org/plan/external/plansearch.aspx.
Visit CIGNA for information on individual CIGNA health products. www.cignaforyou.com/hctips.
Note to editors – The following states might find this story helpful: CA CO, CO, AZ TX, TN FL, GA NC CT, SC
