Top things to know about affordable health insurance

Many people across the country are searching for affordable health insurance. But, as the cost of health insurance keeps rising each year, medical insurance is become almost unaffordable for many. However, skipping health insurance coverage is not an option at all. After all, even a minor accident or surgery can deplete your savings quickly. Here are some tips to help you and your family enjoy affordable health insurance.

1. Employer subsidized group health insurance is always a great deal better than what you can afford to buy on your own. So, regardless of your age and health status, opt for health insurance if your employer offers it. If you and your spouse are working and both of you are eligible for health insurance coverage, you must decide on the one that is the best plan for your family.
2. Compare various health insurance plans before you buy one because there really is no such thing as a standard health insurance plan. You have plenty of choices, so examine each one thoroughly before you settle for a particular health insurance policy.
3. Do not grab a policy just because the premium is low. Remember, the health insurance plan that offers the lowest premium is not always the best one. Compare benefits and costs of various plans. What you pay up front is not as important as what your policy covers. So, the most affordable plan for you is the one that offers you all the benefits you want at cheap rates.
4. If you are on a budget, then, you are better off choosing a plan that stipulates the use of a specified network of health care professionals, hospitals, labs and other service providers. Premiums become steeper as you start hunting for greater flexibility. Check out the track records of doctors, labs and other service providers before you choose the plan and there is no reason why you cannot enjoy proper coverage even on such a health insurance plan.
5. Look for tax breaks as these can save you money. Typically, health insurance is tax deductible only when the premium exceeds 7.5% of the income. But, it is possible to get tax breaks in case you are self employed. Sometimes, employers are also happy to offer flexible spending accounts so as to facilitate attractive tax breaks.

These are some of the tips that will help you bag affordable health insurance. Fortunately, changes are being made in health insurance laws to make it more affordable to different sections of the population. For instance, there are moves to subsidize health insurance for women, which in turn will allow at least 15 million uninsured or partially insured women to opt for adequate health coverage. But, in spite of these positive changes, it is important to compare health insurance policies offered by various companies to enjoy great returns on the health insurance policy you take.