According to the National Coalition on Health Care, 46 million United States citizens were uninsured in 2007. Since most individuals rely on employers to provide medical insurance, those who are laid off or terminated often need resources to ensure they don't have a lapse in insurance coverage. Fortunately, there are companies that provide quick comparison tools online to assist in launching your medical insurance search. Here's a guide for applying for medical insurance.
Instructions
1. Check out companies that offer comparisons such as E-Health Insurance (see Resources). They provide tools that allow you to search premiums from over 175 insurance providers across the country including Aetna, United Health One and Humana One. Make a list of four or five providers to explore further.
2. Determine what type of medical insurance you want. When choosing medical insurance, it's important to think about your needs. For example, determine if you want to have access to both in and out of network medical providers (typically a more expensive policy), or if you're ok visiting select providers to reduce your premium. You may also qualify for additional discounts if you purchase prescriptions from select pharmacies.
3. Contact medical insurance providers. Once you're whittled down your choices to a couple insurance companies, make a list of questions for each provider. For example, ask if the plan has individual and family deductibles and if you'll be responsible for paying co-pays when visiting your doctor; and if so, how much will the co-pay cost.
4. Ask about pre-existing conditions. Some insurance companies have strict guidelines about pre-existing medical conditions. If you have a health condition, it's important to discuss if the condition will be covered before purchasing a policy.
5. Complete a medical insurance application. Once you're selected the right insurance provider and plan, it's time to complete an insurance application. Some companies offer this form online, or you may need to fill out a paper copy. If you'll be receiving a "good health" discount, the insurance company may require a physical exam be completed before approving the discount. Applications can take two to four weeks for processing depending on the company.
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