thehealthinsurancelist.com

There are many different types of health insurance, and some of these can seem confusing. Here are types of health coverage, what each type of health coverage means, and how to understand them. (more…)

Information about the limitations placed on pre-existing condition exclusion periods.

The U.S. health-care system is "a dysfunctional mess" and politicians who insist otherwise look ignorant, according to a medical-journal essay by a prominent ethicist at the National Institutes of Health. (more...)

Choice and competition work in health care. Unfortunately, most of us aren't lucky enough to have access to a market driven and shaped by them. This year employer health-care costs have risen 7.7 percent, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey, more than twice the rate of inflation or workers' wage growth. This is lower than it's been in recent years (costs rose almost 14 percent in 2003). But health costs are still high - and likely will go even higher next year. (more...)

Some uninsured children of the working poor don't go to the doctor's office; it comes to them.

They make too much for Medicaid but not enough to have their own insurance.

And 150,000 patients per year, nationwide, get free care from 21 mobile units provided by the Children's Health Fund. But a new report out Thursday from this non-profit group says far too many kids are falling into a huge health care crevice, CBS News has learned exclusively.

The group's report finds despite billions of dollars in government spending, more than one in four children still don't have full-time health care — a gap twice as big as anyone thought.

"It's more than just insurance and lack of insurance, that are keeping children from getting medical care," says Dr. Irwin Redlener, president of the Children's Health Fund of Columbia University.

It's estimated that 9 million children are completely uninsured. But the new study says 11.5 million more kids end up without medical care for part of the year. And another 3 million can't get a ride to the doctor. That's more than 23 million children.

As a consumer, it is your right and responsibility to review what a plan includes to ensure it meets your individual needs and lifestyle.

California residents who are in the market for health insurance make sure they are aware of what they are buying before they make a purchase. If a consumer is buying a plan through their employer or as an individual, they should always be aware of what is covered under the plan and what is. They should have a good estimation of what would happen to them financially in the event of various scenarios such as a chronic illness requiring long-term care or a catastrophic accident. This can be done by making sure you are familiar with the plan’s deductible, covered services, and out-of-pocket limits.

California health insurance consumers should also make sure they are aware of the types of preventive care covered under their plan. For example, at what age does the plan cover a mammogram for women? At what age does it cover a prostrate specific antigen test for men? Does the plan offer a website where you can find information about health conditions and symptoms? What types of prenatal care are offered? Does the plan offer coverage for vision benefits such as visits to the eye doctor, or for dental services?

Other questions to ask include: Does the plan offer prescription drug coverage, and if so does this coverage help pay for birth control pills? What doctors and providers are part of the plan? What will happen if you receive services out of network?

Does the plan offer support services such as counseling, drug and alcohol rehabilitative services, or an 800 number for assistance with personal issues? What types of treatment – for example, homeopathic - are excluded by the plan?

Knowing beforehand what to expect for their health insurance plan can help California health insurance consumers make the best choices.

How can the Internet aide you in your search to find the health insurance plan best suited to your personal situation and finances?

Health insurance is an important issue no matter who you are. California residents who need to purchase individual health insurance, make a decision about the types of health plans offered by their employer or by a potential employer, or decide what type of insurance to offer their employees may be confused about the options available. Everyone wants to make the best choice and get the coverage they need at a price that is best value for their dollar.

The Internet offers many ways to help with the process. Consumers can use online business directories to search for companies that offer what they are looking for. They can consult the web pages of various insurance companies and in some cases even apply and receive a quote online.

California is a large state with a variety of different health insurance companies serving the needs of its residents. For a new business owner selecting medical benefit options for their employees, it is particularly important to make the right decision. Potential employees in today’s competitive employment market are looking for a health insurance package that is attractive and backed by a reputable company they are familiar with.

Using the Internet to search for health insurance company rankings, third-party reviews, newspaper articles, industry data and other sources can help California residents arm themselves with as much information as possible when making choices about their health insurance coverage. While the Internet can be a valuable tool, it is important to keep in mind that credibility of the source. Be wary of marketing sites in disguise and always be certain that you know what organization is responsible for the content of any website you consult.