If you feel like it’s time to change health insurance plans, we get it; after all, your health is too valuable to risk on sub-par insurance. But if you’ll be looking into a new carrier or a new plan, you should know which questions to ask to ensure you get the insurance you need. Here’s what you need to know:
Can I change?
It seems pretty basic, but if you’ve purchased insurance on the state exchange, you might not be able to switch plans until open enrollment. Typically you can only make changes when a life event occurs – like a birth or marriage in the family.
Will I need to wait?
If you get a new health plan, that carrier might require you to wait for eligibility. This could mean that you won’t be covered by the insurance until you’ve completed the waiting period, which could be a few months. You can continue to pay for your old plan or for COBRA if you’re eligible.
Is my doctor in your network?
If you have doctors and facilities you love, it’s very important to ensure that they’re in the network before you commit to a new plan. Of course, most PPOs will allow you to see any doctor you wish, but the coverage will be much better if your doctor is in network.
What about prescriptions?
Prescription medication can be expensive. Before you commit to a new plan, be sure to check to see if your medications are covered and what the price is after your coverage kicks in.
What about specialists?
Many insurance plans have coverage limits when it comes to seeing specialists. Check to determine what these limitations are and decide whether you think the coverage suits your needs.
Got questions about healthcare coverage? We’re always here to help. Give us a call today and we’ll make sure you get the plan you need.
