There are many variables to the cost of health insurance, but at the end of the day they all come down to three major factors, which are the degree of risks that an insurance policy will indemnify, the reputation and stability of the insurance provider, and, of course, the insured or the person who will avail of the insurance. Getting one shouldn’t be difficult these days. Insurance agents littered the market and they are more than willing to offer one. The government has instituted its own health insurance for the general public. Then, there are employers who make health insurance a part of its roaster of worker benefits, particularly if they are involved in jobs that pose real risks to their body.
There are limitations to reckon with when relying solely on the health insurances that an employer or the government provides. Under such circumstances, it is quite common for policies to exclude family members, especially for single, unmarried persons with aging parents, because it means higher cost, whether solely shouldered or co-insured. On the other hand, the government health insurance is limited to those who have been maimed or disabled, or to those who are 65-years-old and above. However, it is quite a different matter when a middle age executive is diagnosed with a chronic disease; one is neither disabled nor a senior citizen.
Proprietors, self-employed professionals, and even employees with the resources often have the free hand in choosing their provider in adding a personal or private health insurance. It is a better scenario to be in, because one can cover more risks, including those of the close relatives. This option is gaining credence these days, because if its flexibility and wider coverage, which after all, add to one’s peace of mind. People who require specific health care that the insurance of the employer cannot be covered can study quotes from private companies. There are cases when the preferred doctors or hospitals are not included in the list of accredited clinics. Private health insurance usually allows insurers to change the said list.
Given these benefits, however, the cost of health insurance from private providers is relatively expensive. Nonetheless, there are ways for the policy premiums to be more affordable. The first to consider are the terms of payment. The insurer has the option of paying it on a monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, semestral, or annual basis. When unable to pay a high annual premium upon signing the policy, a person can go for a monthly, staggered basis. Inclusion of immediate family members can cost much, so, check to see if it is cheaper to just avail for them a separate policy.
Age and bad vices that compromise the health can bring up the premium cost. While there isn’t much that can be done to reduce the cost, people can still thank the lucky stars for the social health insurance that the government provides. Including one’s preferred medical practitioners and institutions can also drastically increase the cost. But it is outside of the premium though, so if it is not really necessary, it may be good to scrutinize the insurer’s list of accredited specialists and clinics. Visit these doctors and hospitals, particularly the ones that are likely to meet your health needs now and in the future.
