Monday, October 26, 2009

Buy Health Insurance For Kids

Health insurance for kids is available from at low cost from the state and federal government.


Health insurance provides people with low-cost access to medical care. Users pay an upfront fee. In turn, they can see a doctor for preventative medical care and if they develop a serious medical condition. Kids also need health insurance. Health insurance for kids helps families sleep easier at night knowing children will get to see a doctor if they get sick. Good health insurance covers a child's short-term medical needs and helps them set up a good foundation for a healthy adulthood.


Instructions


1. Find out where you can purchase health insurance for kids. Two of the most common options are through an employer or through separate, private medical insurance. Many employers provide family health insurance as part of a benefits package to employees. The worker pays a higher premium than he would for individual coverage. In turn, all family members are covered. Private medical plans are available if you have no coverage at work. If you are self-employed, you may wish to purchase private health insurance for your employees and yourself. Employers may be eligible for tax benefits if they do so, so check with your accountant.


2. Research state-subsidized options. Parents who are unable to afford private medical insurance or do not have medical insurance from an employer can get access to state and federal health insurance for kids. Applicants must meet certain guidelines that include proof of citizenship and earnings below a certain amount. State and federal programs are designed to help kids. The programs offer comprehensive coverage, low premiums and no exclusion of pre-existing conditions such as type 1 diabetes.


3. Investigate the costs of the health insurance. Health care plans typically charge several different fees. A premium is a fee that you pay usually at least once a month. Health care insurance for kids may require a small additional premium or get folded into the cost of your overall coverage. Co-pays and deductibles are amounts you must pay before the coverage starts. A co-pay may be charged if your child sees a pediatrician. A deductible typically is a fee that you must pay per year first. If your child gets into an accident at school, you may face an initial deductible when he is brought to the emergency room for treatment.


4. Speak with your pediatrician. Your kid's doctor often knows a lot about health insurance plans for children. A pediatrician can help you understand which plan will serve your child's needs best. The pediatrician may point out that a particular plan covers specific treatments for asthma, while another plan offers no such coverage. If you have a choice of plans, bring the information with you when you visit.


5. Learn what additional services are covered. A health insurance plan for kids might allow parents to get at least partial reimbursement for braces, physical therapy appointments and treatment for mental illness. You should be able to find out in advance what extra medically related services will cost.







Tags: insurance kids, health insurance, medical insurance, your child, Health care, health insurance, health insurance