FAQs about Individual Health Insurance

Here are a few common terms you'll want to be familiar with when you shop for your auto insurance coverage:

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about individual health insurance plans:

Types of Individual Health Insurance Plans
Q: What type of individual health insurance plan should I choose?

A: There are two general categories of individual health insurance plans: Indemnity (or reimbursement) plans and managed care plans. Managed care plans include health maintenance organizations (HMOs), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), and point of service (POS) plans. An indemnity plan lets you choose your own doctors and pays for your medical expenses. Managed care plans involve an arrangement between the insurer and a selected network of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.

Q: Which is better, an indemnity plan or an HMO?

A: Each type of individual health insurance has advantages and disadvantages. If you're considering an HMO, make sure your physician is part of the HMO network. If he or she is not, a PPO might be a better choice, because you can still get at least some coverage regardless of network affiliation. You might also prefer a PPO if you have a medical condition that requires specialized care, because PPO members don't need a referral before seeing a specialist. On the other hand, an HMO doesn't require deductibles, and co-payments are usually lower. In short, choose the type of individual health insurance that best meets your particular needs.

What About an Outside Specialist?
Q: I would like to see a specialist who is outside of my HMO provider network. What are my options?

A: Ask your primary care physician for a referral. If he or she refuses and you feel strongly about seeing the out-of-network specialist, you can either pay for the specialist's services out of pocket or change to a primary care physician who will make the referral.

Q: Can I obtain chiropractic insurance?

A: You're unlikely to find a health insurance policy specifically for chiropractic care, but you may be able to get coverage through your individual health insurance plan. Check your coverage information or ask your insurance company.

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