Health Insurance

The best health insurance plan for you is the one that gives you the greatest flexibility and the most benefits for the lowest cost. Unfortunately, there's no such thing as a standard health insurance plan. As you would when making any major purchase, you'll need to shop around and get several quotes before choosing a plan.

Here are a few points to consider:

• What co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance requirements apply?
• How much freedom do you have to choose your own health-care providers?
• Does the plan cover the health services that you need?
• Does the plan cover the health-care providers you're currently using?
• Does the plan offer family, as well as individual, coverage?
• Does the plan cover pre-existing conditions? If so, is there a waiting period? (The average waiting period is three months to one year.)
• Does the insurance company have a good reputation in the industry and a positive rating from a major ratings organization? (Contact your state's department of insurance for more information.)