What Questions Should I Ask Before Purchasing A Health Plan?

No list of recommendations could fully address all of the issues that you'll face as you shop for the right HMO plan for your needs, but the following tips should give you a better idea of what you should focus on as you make your decision.

Don't forget to take whatever time you need to think over your options carefully. You should concentrate your questions on the following areas:

Your Costs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses:

• How much will it cost me if I go outside the plan's Network?
• What is the plan's maximum lifetime benefit?
• What are my deductible options?
• What are my co-payment rate options?
• Does the plan have a maximum out-of-pocket expense cap?
• Will I be able to make changes to my health plan’s deducible or co-payment rates later on?

Your Benefits and Coverage Limits:

• Can I take advantage of my plan's network if I haven't met the deductible yet?
• Does the plan require referrals from Primary Care Physicians?
• Will I be covered if I'm outside of the country?
• Does my health insurance require a pre-certification from a Primary Care Physician before hospitalization?