Weighing The Options: Group Or Individual Health Insurance?

In: Insurance

19 Apr 2009

Group health insurance is most commonly offered by employers. There are benefits to group health insurance for both the insurance company and the covered individuals. Because so many people are paying into the group insurance policy, the associated risk is lessened. This allows the insurance company to offer lower rates, which in turn benefits the consumer. If you are interested in obtaining group health insurance, but are not currently employed, you may be able to obtain coverage through an organization. Various membership based organizations offer group health insurance to their members.

The easiest way to obtain group coverage is with an employee plan. Most employers offer full time workers health insurance as part of an elective benefits package. This had added advantages as well. No health examination is required, and many employers pay a portion of the health insurance premiums for you.

However, many individuals are self-employed. These people often do not think group coverage can be obtained, and usually seek out individual health insurance. This means that they are the sole policy holder, and also the sole responsible party. They must pay all of the premiums, in full, themselves.

Opting for individual health insurance has its drawbacks. Insurance companies often require medical examinations for prospective clients. Any problems present before insurance is obtained are not covered. These are termed “pre-existing conditions”, and can be quite varied, and costly. Moreover, because the coverage is only for a single person, the premiums are much higher.

The benefits of group health insurance seem a much more attractive option. By joining a membership organization, you may receive group coverage. Your premium payments may be lower, as you are paying into the policy together with the other members of the group. Often a single member will handle the paperwork and claims for you, and you will have someone to answer your questions. There may be a group information access number for common questions or concerns regarding your policy.

It is best to research your options thoroughly. Different organizations offer different policies, with different requirements and benefits. some still require a medical examination, and exclude pre-existing conditions. Because this can lead to tremendous expense, it is definitely worthwhile to investigate all of your options.

Cowell Student Health Center offers several different options. This is a full service facility, offering urgent care, health education, one on one counseling, and office spaces. The facility will soon be expanded with a second story, increasing its square footage by about 30%.

Student plans include an International Student Insurance program which is designed to provide coverage for unseen medical expenses during the four or more years of higher education. Another option is Fortis Student Health Insurance, which offers a wide variety of individual, small group, and specialty plans.

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