At HealthCompare we field many calls from people who would like to understand their options better. Our philosophy over the past 25 years has been to provide customers with the right information so they can be empowered to make the right decision for their Insurance needs. This presentation aims to do just that.

3. Pre-existing conditions like chronic illness or diabetes can increase your premiums and may also be subject to “waiting periods” before you benefit from coverage.

4. Lifestyle choices such as smoking will increase your premiums.HealthCompare.org

6. Choose a co-payment plan – the premium is lower but you pay a percentage of costs for services you receive. Consider the monthly premium costs along with additional out-of-pocket expenses for care.HealthCompare.org

8. Underwriters will calculate your particular premiums based on a variety of factors including your health status and history, lifestyle choices, and age.HealthCompare.org

9. In addition, your premium costs will vary based on several coverage variables: Deductible amounts –The total amount of money you need to pay before your health insurance provider takes over. These are usually set on a yearly basis Many insurance companies offer high deductible plan options, which will likely lower your monthly premiums. Co-insurance – This is how you and your insurance provider share the costs of your medical costs. They are usually described in terms of percentages. Example, Insurance company pays 80%, you pay 20% HealthCompare.org

10. Copay - The amount that you pay towards your medical bill. It is your share of the costs. They are usually described as set dollar amounts. Copay amounts vary according to your policy and can change within a policy if, for example, you Seek treatment outside of your network, or choose to see a specialist; or Choose brand drugs over generic drugs Out-of-pocket maximums – An out-of-pocket maximum is the dollar limit that you will be responsible for during the course of the policy term. This amount typically includes deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance but not premiums. Lifetime maximums – this is the maximum amount your insurance company will pay in your lifetime for your policy. HealthCompare.org

12. A study by Harvard University researchers showed an average out-of-pocket medical debt of $12,000 for individuals who filed for bankruptcy. The study also found that 50 percent of all bankruptcy filings were partly the result of medical expenses. HealthCompare.org

14. Medical expenses can lead to housing trouble. Many consumers can’t pay their mortgage or get credit approval due to outstanding medical debt. HealthCompare.org

16. When you use the services offered by the pre-approved providers you are using “in network” services.

17. There are two different types of plans to choose from: managed care plans and indemnity plans.HealthCompare.org

20. With certain types of managed health care coverage such as HMOs, you’ll be asked to select a primary care physician from a roster of doctors who belong to the provider network. HealthCompare.org

22. When you use a doctor in a provider network you are using “in network” services. For their services you inquire a lower out-of-pocket cost than if you had an indemnity plan, which does not rely on provider network agreements. HealthCompare.org

24. If you opt to go outside the network for medical services, you will likely be responsible for part or all of the associated fees for the service, regardless of whether or not you have reached your in network out-of-pocket maximum.HealthCompare.org

27. Reasonable: A fee is considered reasonable when it meets both the usual and customary criteria. A reasonable fee may also be determined on a case-by-case basis by the insurer.HealthCompare.org

28. 1. Comparison shop for tests. As costs for tests can vary greatly between different facilities. 2. Haggle over the hospital bill. Hospitals may be willing to reduce an account balance if the patient can demonstrate that the payment of a co-pay or deductible is a hardship. If you don’t ask for it, you won’t get it. 3. Eliminate unnecessary follow-up appointments. Question whether or not you need a follow up appointment or if it can be handled with a simple phone call. HealthCompare.org

29. 4. Inquire about less expensive prescriptions. When prescribed a name brand prescription, ask if a generic will suffice. 5. Talk prices directly with your doctor. If you are experiencing financial hardship, talk directly with your doctor about getting a reduction in your bill. HealthCompare.org

30. Who is HealthCompare: HealthCompare is your online one-stop-shop for health insurance where you can research and compare plans onlinefrom over 150 national carriers. We Promise: To give you the best results for YOU, we never promote one carrier over the other. We just assess your needs and show you the best options from national carriers with plans in your area. Our Commitment is to YOU: As a division of The Word & Brown Company who has been the leading source for small group health insurance for over 20 years, we have leveraged technology to build an easy-to-use research tool, supported by a world class customer service team. Our Promise #1 HealthCompare.org

31. 1. You can enter your information anonymously HealthCompare.org

32. 2. You can review your plan options online in seconds HealthCompare.org

33. 3. You can even compare plans side-by-side HealthCompare.org

34. 4. Then, you can apply online or call one of our trained Benefits Advisors for help! HealthCompare.org

35. Call toll free 877-641-1101 to speak to a trained Benefits Advisor or… Go to HealthCompare.org today! HealthCompare.org