If you are in the market for health insurance, you may be wondering where to start. Find out more about your options, as well as resources that can help you get your search underway.
Health Insurance Coverage Options
- Individual Policies - Individual policies are usually the first place people look when they need insurance and can't get it through their jobs. These policies are sold by private companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Wellpoint, and many others. Each state has different rules governing individual policies. For more information on the rules in you state, see State-Specific Resources below.
- High Risk Pools - If you are rejected for individual coverage due to a pre-existing health condition, a high risk pool may be the answer. High risk pools are not available in every state, but if yours has one, you will want to investigate this option. High risk pools are typically more expensive that individual policies, but if you can afford the cost, it's far better than remaining uninsured.
- HIPAA coverage - If you have recently lost job-based group coverage, and have exhausted all of the COBRA continuation coverage available to you, you may be eligible for something called HIPAA coverage. HIPAA coverage is mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, and requires states to provide a coverage option for you if you do your part to stay continuously covered with no more than a 63-day gap in coverage. This option is typically used by people with pre-existing conditions who are unable to qualify for individual coverage. If your state does not have a high risk pool, it may be the only way for you to obtain coverage. Talk to your insurance agent about this special coverage option.
Where to Find Help
- Insurance Agents - Insurance agents can help you find a policy that fits your needs. Be sure you are dealing with an agent that is licensed to sell health insurance. You can check an agent's status with your state's Department of Insurance. Find contact information and links to the Department of Insurance and insurance agent information under State-Specific Resources below.
- Department of Insurance - in addition to providing information about licensed insurance agents, the Department of Insurance also keep lists of insurance companies that are licensed to do business in their state - but they cannot make recommendations for specific agents or companies. The Department of Insurance can also handle complaints if you feel you are being treated unfairly in your search for insurance coverage. Find contact information for your state's Department of Insurance under State-Specific Resources below.
- State-Specific Resources - Each state has its own rules governing health insurance. Find out how to obtain insurance in your state, and get contact information for health insurance resources here.
