Did you know you can still purchase health insurance outside of the complicated government exchanges? Here at AFI Insurance, we offer Illinois health insurance solutions for people who are looking for more than generic policies designed to fit the needs of the masses. When you shop with us, you get access to a wide range of options, all with the same great customer service you expect from your local independent insurance agency.
Why Purchase Private Health Insurance?
Americans are purchasing private health insurance more than ever. With employer coverage, you might be restricted to only a few options. When you purchase your own policy, however, you may be able to choose your own deductibles and coverage level instead. Besides dissatisfaction with an employer health plan, some of the other reasons for choosing private coverage include:
- Being self-employed
- Working for an employer that does not offer coverage
- Losing your job
Don’t Trust Online Research
While you can go online to shop around for health insurance, starting your research there could shortchange you of a better policy and premium. Many websites touting private health insurance quotes only offer quotes from one company. That means that while you may be getting some quotes, you may not be getting the whole picture. Furthermore, insurance laws have been evolving frequently over the past few years. It helps to have someone on your side who can explain these changes and how they may affect you.
Instead, opt for the guidance of an independent health insurance agent who can help you shop and compare quotes from multiple insurers. At AFI Insurance, we can help match you with coverage from multiple carriers until you find a policy that works for you. We can also provide guidance as you make important choices about your deductible, co-pays, coinsurance, and the type of policy you decide on.
Types of Illinois Health Insurance
Illinois residents can choose from several different types of health insurance policies. Examples include:
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs)
An HMO health insurance policy provides coverage for healthcare from providers within the HMO network. Most HMOs require insured individuals to establish a primary care provider (PCP) within the HMO network. This is the physician you will see first for your care. When necessary, the primary care provider can provide a referral to a specialist who is also within your network. Despite the limitations, many people choose HMO health plans because they tend to be more affordable overall than PPOs.
Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs)
Most people prefer a PPO if they want more flexibility in which provider they can visit and when. With a PPO, there is no need for a referral to see a specialist, and your policy typically pays benefits regardless of which provider you choose, although you may receive better coverage for doctors and hospitals within your PPO network.
High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)
A high-deductible health plan is a policy that carries a high deductible. That means you will spend more money out-of-pocket toward the cost of your care before insurance will provide coverage. In exchange, you benefit from low, affordable premiums. You also have the opportunity to contribute to a health savings account (HSA). This is an account that allows for tax-free contributions and withdrawals so long as the money is used for qualified medical expenses.
Indemnity Plans
Also known as fee-for-service plans, this type of coverage pays a set amount toward the cost of your care regardless of which provider you choose. For example, you might receive $100 toward the cost of a sick visit at the doctor’s office or $500 per day for a hospitalization. While this allows for flexibility of care, it can also leave you responsible for any medical bills that are not covered by the indemnity amount.
We here at AFI Insurance can provide help choosing a health insurance policy fitting for your needs. There are several variables to consider, including your age, health history, family size, budget, and more.
Comparing Policies
When you compare policies, you may be tempted to narrow down your options to those with the most affordable premiums. However, there are several other factors to consider before you make a decision. For example, do you know what your annual maximum out-of-pocket expense will be and which types of charges you pay will and will not count toward that amount? Do you know what your prescription drug benefits will be? What about how much you will pay in ‘extras’ for things like doctor’s visits? An expensive co-pay can quickly drive up your overall costs. Some policies only charge co-pays for doctor’s visits, whereas others charge hundreds of dollars just for setting foot in the emergency room.
Why Shop Independent?
If you are not using an independent agent to shop for your family’s health insurance, you could be missing out on a broad selection of coverage options – one of which might be exactly what you are looking for. Instead of looking for health insurance coverage on your own, use a licensed agent, Frank Isadore, for your coverage shopping needs. We can explain details of your policy and answer any questions you may have about a particular policy and how it may affect you.
For more information about Illinois health insurance solutions or to request your free quote, contact our office today. We look forward to serving you soon.
