Although there are many types of individual and family insurance plans available in the United States, many of them are neither desirable nor affordable for the average person. A group insurance plan, if available, often provides health insurance at a greatly discounted rate, with many of the same benefits provided by an individual plan. Group plans include those offered by an employer, college, or the government in the case of a high-risk pool. Each will be suitable for different types of people and will provide varying benefits.
The most widely available group plans are employer-sponsored. These may or may not be offered to part-time employees. Often this type of plan involves a fairly low deductible with copays for visits to the doctor’s office. Though most plans are not comprehensive in that they do not include dental or vision, benefits are usually provided much more cheaply than individual plans. There are drawbacks, however. Enrollment is usually open only once a year, you may have to work a certain number of hours to be eligible, and you may not have the option to choose your insurer. Benefits and premiums will vary depending on your employer.
Student health insurance is a good option for students who attend college far from home and are not covered by their parents’ health insurance plan. Student group plans are usually offered by the college or university and provide inexpensive coverage for basic medical care. Benefits may be limited; however, on-campus health clinics often provide discounted services and prescriptions. Students who qualify for both employer-sponsored health insurance and student health insurance through the college should research each choice thoroughly before making a final decision. Although student health plans may not offer as many benefits, they are usually extremely affordable.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition and are not eligible for any other group plans, you may have no choice but to apply for your states high-risk pool. Many states have had high-risk pools for years, while others have only opened enrollment as of June 2010. To be eligible for this type of insurance, you must have been denied insurance based on your medical condition. Premiums are relatively affordable and will not change based on your medical condition; they are, however, based on your age. You will need to pay a yearly deductible before receiving coverage, but specifics will vary depending on your state. Research each option so that you can make an informed decision.