Assurant Health Dental for Wyoming Residents…

Assurant Health Plus Dental Plan For Wyoming Residents

Assurant Dental Plus Brochure

For those who live in the great state of Wyoming, finding a stand alone dental plan that works is not easy to find.  Because Wyoming is such a small state population wise it is almost impossible to find PPO networks if any at all.  So what do people like those who live in more rural states do for dental insurance?  Well up until recently there were not many options at all.  Even in towns like Jackson Hole where the cost of dental care is very high, most dental offices do not participate in the larger carriers networks.  But now Wyoming has a choice…

Most people agree that regular dental care can mean more than a brighter smile.  Maintaining good oral health is vital to your overall good health.  Assurant Health offers in Wyoming three benefit levels to choose from with monthly rates starting as low as $15.50 per month.  Assurant Health’s dental plans pay CASH right to you and not the provider.  There are no networks at all – you simply choose who you want to go to for your dental services.  In addition there are no waiting periods to meet before dental benefits are paid.  Unique to Assurant Health is their dental policies do not have a waiting period.  Benefits are reduced to 50% during the first policy year and then payments are made at 100% of the benefit allowed in years two and beyond. This is one of the very few plans that provide payment for services from day one.

Preventive Services - Assurant Health’s dental plans allow two visits per year (one every 6 months) and like all the plans there is no waiting period.  But where this plan differs is that the dental plan will pay up to $100 for your preventive services on their “PLUS” plan which in most cases this amount will cover most or all of your preventive visit costs.  Again, you can visit any dentist – no network restrictions.

Plan Benefits - With the Assurant Health dental plans you have the choice to submit your claims to Assurant after your visit and receive the CASH benefits direct or you can allow your dentist to submit the claims and receive the benefits in their office.  What is slightly different with Assurant Health is that the benefits that are paid are based on a schedule of defined benefits rather than a percentage of an allowed amount.

Because you have the complete choice in whom you select for your dental care it is up to you to negotiate the best deal for you and your family members.  Then simply submit your claims with receipts for reimbursement.  Today paying in CASH offers strong incentives for dental providers to offer discounted fees for full payment at the time services are rendered.  These plans are great especially if you live in a more rural part of the United States like Wyoming where networks are limited or not available at all. Many people simply do not want to have to choose a provider in any network – the choice is yours.

Click to View Assurant Health’s Dental Presentation

Applying for Assurant Health is simple and easy to do.  Because there is no underwriting to do the enrollment process is guaranteed.  To read more about the dental plans from Assurant Health click on the link below.  To get a quote and apply when ready click on the blue button.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO…

If would prefer to download the paper version for the application download it from the button below.  Simply complete the application and FAX it back to us at FAX# (415) 651-8696.  You can also scan your application and email it to us as an attachment at “sales@individualhealth.com”

If you have any questions at all about the Assurant Health dental plans call us at (619) 435-6700 or email us at “sales@individualhealth.com“.  Feel free to visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.

Blue Shield of California’s New Health Savings Account Compatible Plans…

Shield Complete Portfolio Brochure

As we have mentioned in earlier posts – Blue Shield of California is making some big changes to their portfolio of plans starting July 1st.  In our earlier post we introduced the new Shield Complete Portfolio that will be their new flagship product line.  One of the plans within the Shield Complete Portfolio is called “Shield Saver“.

Shield Saver Plans will be replacing the current Shield Savings Plans that have been the HSA compatible plans for several years past.   With the Shield Savings Plans there were three plan choices to choose from.  With the new Shield Saver Plans you will have only two plan options to choose from.  These new plans were designed for the person who wants to take an active role in the healthcare dollars they save and spend.

Shield Saver is a high-deductible Health Plan (HDHP)  that’s compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA) offers a smart way to save and have protection in case of an accident or other emergency. You can plan ahead and put money aside for healthcare expenses. Plus, the Shield Saver plans offer preventive care services at no additional charge before meeting the deductible.

Plan Features

• Low Monthly Rates
• Preventive care services without a copayment before meeting the deductible
• Compatible with a Health Savings Account (which is optional)
• Chiropractic and acupuncture coverage
• Generic and brand-name prescription coverage

Plans Available

• Shield Saver 4000 - This plan offers a single deductible for individuals of $4,000 or a combined deductible of $8,000 per family.  Once you have reached your annual deductible benefits are covered at 100% for the balance of the year.
• Shield Saver 6000 - This plan offers a single deductible for individuals of $6,000 or a combined deductible of $12,000 per family.  Once you have reached your annual deductible benefits are covered at 100% for the balance of the year.

These plans offer higher deductible choices than the previous Shield Savings Plans.  There are heavy limitations for elective health care services if received from Non-Preferred Providers so read these limitation carefully before you buy.  It is important you fully understand the ramification for seeking medical care from Non-Preferred Providers.

Prescription drugs are covered in these plans for both Generic and Brand-name drugs.  It is important to note that this is not a stand-alone Prescription Drug benefit (meaning a copay).  Any expenses for prescription drugs are subject to your plan deductible first.  Then they are covered at 100%.  Also it is important to note that if a member or physician requests a brand-name drug when a generic drug equivalent is available, the member is responsible for paying the difference between the Participating Pharmacy contracted rate for the brand-name drug and its generic drug equivalent, as well as the applicable generic drug copayment.  The difference in cost will not accrue to the deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.

For existing Blue Shield members that may be on the Shield Savings Plans watch your mail for updated information from Blue Shield of California.  You will want to pay attention to what they offer you in terms of plan transfers and which of the new plans are available to transfer into without having to meet medical underwriting.  If you are healthy you can move to where ever you want.

One more thing to note… Because the deductibles are reaching extreme heights today people are looking to supplemental insurance options that can help mitigate these large gaps if medical treatment is needed.  One of the most cost effective plans that can help accomplish this is the new Accident Plan from Assurant Health.  For as little as $35 per month you can cover an entire family with solid Accident Coverage and these plan benefits pay cash to you to be used as you see fit.  You apply online and there is no medical underwriting.   Click Here for more information…

If you have questions call me at (619) 435-6700 or email me at “sales@individualhealth.com” .  If you would like to get a new FREE quote for any of these new Shield Complete plans click on the blue button below.  It is important to note that you will need to put July 1, 2012 or later in the effective date field in order to get rates on the new plans.  If you would like to shop other plan options for your area visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.

Inbound Students To The United States – Make the Smart Choice…

Most of the blog posts we have done for International Students has been focused on U.S. Students traveling abroad, outbound from the United States to where ever their studies take them.  This post I want to focus on the International Student that may be planning on coming to the United States for school.  This may include both College students as well as students in grades 6th through 12th.

Just about every school in the U.S. will require the student to have comprehensive health insurance coverage in place before they start school.  Most colleges and universities will already include some form of coverage that the student will be charged for in their tuition fees, unless they opt out and can provide proof of acceptable coverage.  Most of the health plans we see offered by schools are limited in their scope of coverage and for the most part only cover the International Student while they are at the school.

These plans definitely have limitations in both coverage amounts and many of them significantly limit your selection of health care providers.  These plans usually are just sufficient to cover the student while at school but benefits are limited when you leave the area.  Is there a better choice?  We think so…

If you are planning to leave your home country and move to the United States to study you have already spent many man hours and plenty of money just to get here.  Because having a comprehensive health plan is a very important component of your travels you at least need to consider the alternatives to the expensive and limited coverage plans that will be offered to you by your school.

Here in the United States HTH Worldwide is hands down the leader in International Health insurance for both U.S. Student traveling abroad and Non U.S. students traveling to the United States for school.  Several options exist depending on the length of time you plan to study in the U.S.  Today we will make the assumption you will be staying for multiple years of study and that you will  want to travel home from time to time.  Securing suitable health benefits is one of the biggest considerations you will make.

HTH Worldwide is what we call an Admitted Health Insurance Carrier.  Basically this means that you are protected under U.S. insurance laws and oversight.  U.S. Insurance laws are strict and have long favored the health care consumer.  Policy language must meet the plain English definition.  Benefit levels, policy wording, plan definitions, exclusions, claims process, claims turnaround times, formal appeals process all must meet regulatory muster.

An admitted plan can be kept even after your employment ends or your overseas assignment ceases.  U.S. Insurance Laws have stepped up to ensure portability.  Admitted plans typically offer larger networks in the United States with fewer billing issues for members.  In addition, contracted doctors and hospitals are available in most locations overseas.  These providers agree to bill the insurance company directly.  Providers are profiled and contracted and members can review their biographical information.

Admitted plans offer broader benefits, higher limits and no waiting periods on medical conditions.  Expatriates have an appetite for comprehensive coverage and can enjoy superior health insurance if they choose wisely. It is always a good idea to do your homework and read the fine print.

HTH Worldwide offers three great plans to choose from depending on your length of stay and your budget.  But for those who will be staying in the United States for more than 6 months then you really need to consider the “Global Citizen” from HTH Worldwide.  Get a quote today and see how they compare.

Click to View Brochure

The Global Citizen from HTH Worldwide was designed to support the international lifestyles of those who travel to or from the United States for extended periods of business, leisure and study. If you leave home for six months or more, your health and financial security are at serious risk because of significant gaps found in most available insurance coverage and services. This risk is only heightened by limited knowledge of health and safety hazards around the world, including medical treatment from unfamiliar providers.  If you are an International Student studying here in the United States there will be times when you will want or need to travel home and you can be rest assured that your health insurance coverage will follow you 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, anywhere in the world, including when you travel home or even if you decide to travel around the United States on your free time.  The Global Citizen is the best International product we have to offer.

Check out their rates.  Obtaining a quote is FREE and when you are ready to apply you can do so from any Internet Connection anywhere in the world.  Normal Underwriting times before we have a decision are generally 7 days or less.  If you have any questions feel free to call us at (619) 435-6700 or email your questions to “sales@individualhealth.com“.  If you would like to explore other international products from HTH Worldwide visit our website – www.IndividualHealth.com.  Good luck and enjoy your time at school.

Blue Shield of California Now Requires Payment With Applications…

Blue Shield of California Payment Changes

May 1st is almost here.  Earlier this year we posted another blog post about the new requirement from Blue Shield of California to receive payment at the time applications are submitted.  Well effective May 1, 2012 you will not longer be able to submit any applications for coverage without also submitting the first month’s premium with your application.  If you submit an application without 100% of the first months dues your application will be returned to you – NO EXCEPTIONS.

This new enforcement of this requirement also includes applications submitted online.  Without providing payment information your online application will not be able to be submitted.  Once your application and payment information is received Blue Shield will begin the Underwriting Process.  Payments will not be processed unless your application for coverage is approved.

Please note – Blue Shield will no longer accept payments via Credit Cards for recurring payments.   You can only use a credit card for your initial first months premium due via credit card.  The other options of ongoing payments will be automatic payment from checking or savings, monthly billing or quarterly billing.  No other options will be allowed.

Effective July 1, 2012
Blue Shield Introduces New Shield Complete Portfolio

Blue Shield of California has just announced the closure of most of their Individual and family plans effective July 2, 2012. With the exception of four plans all other Blue Shield health plans will no longer be for sale. Beginning with effective dates of July 1st (subject to regulatory approval) Blue Shield will start with their new portfolio of plans call Shield Complete. Blue Shield is offering 11 clearly designed plans in four distinct plan families. Shield Secure Plus, Shield Secure, Shield Wise and Shield Saver.

Shield Secure Plus - The Shield Secure Plus plans provide physician office visits for a low copayment, a low brand-name prescription drug deductible, and a choice of several medical deductible options to meet your needs. Shield Secure Plus provides physician office visits for a fixed copay of $30 before meeting the deductible and multiple medical deductible options, some of Blue Shield of California’s lowest out-of-pocket maximums. The three deductible options for Shield Secure Plus are $2,000, $4,000 and $6,000 dollars.

Shield Secure - These Blue Shield plans offer the same physician office visits and medical deductible options as Shield Secure Plus plans, but at a lower monthly rate. The lower costs come from members sharing more of the costs such as higher coinsurance and higher out-of-pocket maximums. These plans also cover generic prescription drugs, along with higher brand-name drug deductible for the security of brand-name drugs. The three deductible options for Shield Secure Plus are $2,000, $4,000 and $6,000 dollars.

Shield Wise - Shield Wise plans provide the right amount of benefits to keep your clients healthy and the protection they need in case of an unforeseen illness or emergency. This plan family offers multiple levels of cost-sharing for greater financial flexibility, two physician office visits for a fixed copay prior to meeting the annual deductible, and a high brand-name drug deductible for those who prefer to keep their monthly rates low but want to know they have coverage for brand-name drugs if they need it.

Shield Saver - Shield Saver* plans are high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) that are compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA). The deductible is equal to the copayment maximum, so once your client meets their deductible Blue Shield will pay 100% of covered services when using Preferred Providers. Low out-of-pocket costs make Shield Saver plans ideal for clients who are looking to protect their finances in the event of a medical emergency. Shield Saver plans allow your clients to lower their rates without losing the coverage they need to protect their health and finances.

These new plans are available to apply for now as long as your requested effective date is July 1st or later.  We will be updating our website to reflect these new plans daily so feel free to visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.  If you have questions about the billing changes or about the new Shield Complete portfolio please call (619) 435-6700. If you would like to get a quote for the new plans now simply click on the blue button below.

Study Abroad Students – More Than One Option…

Study Abroad Students Have Choices

Wow you have finally made it to college and better yet you are planning to spend part of your further education years overseas studying abroad.  This is most definitely one of the most exciting times in your life.  You have worked hard to get where you are at and you have spent countless hours preparing for your upcoming adventure.

Maintaining your health and safety during your study abroad experience depends  on choices and safeguards you take prior to, during, and following your time outside the borders of your home country. There simply are no guarantees or absolutes with regard to health and safety when one travels internationally. Many study abroad programs sponsors will require the submission of medical forms about your physical and mental health. In addition you will in most cases be asked to show proof of health and accident insurance before you leave home.

We want to focus this post on the insurance requirements and options that you will need to address before you can leave on your overseas education adventure.  For some this may seem a bit daunting and to others it may seem fairly straight forward and simple.  A common mistake made by many is that they think that if you are a student that will be outside the borders of your home country your domestic health plans will cover you.  But that is generally not the case.  In addition, many of the larger colleges and university’s offer limited coverage’s that are in many cases built into the cost of the Study Abroad Program so why look for other coverage?  And then there are all the other International Insurance options one can consider.  We hope this information will help you in your quest for the proper coverage for you and or your family member.  It may be the most important decision you make prior to leaving home.

There are basically three types of international policies that are available to the traveling student.  Each plan design offers different levels and length of coverage. There are policies that are marketed directly to the International Student, there are Short Term Travel Medical plans and finally Annual Renewable Major Medical Plans.  Each plan type reaches a different market although most off of these products have the same thing in common, providing medical coverage should the unexpected come to pass.

International Student Policies

One of the first options students seem to gravitate to are the Global Student plans that generally offer a fairly comprehensive level of benefits but limited in their scope of coverage maximums.  These plans are easy to spot primarily because they are marketed with the name “Student” or “Global Student” somewhere in the title of the plan name.  They are in most cases the least expensive option and they can generally be extended beyond 12 months in many cases.  However if your insurance needs extend beyond 12 months then you need to consider other options.  It is important to note that there are many things that are excluded or limited in these types of plans so please read through the Exclusion and Limitation section of the policy carefully.  Two quick examples are generally “Pre-Existing Conditions” and “Acts of War or Terrorism”.

Short Term International Major Medical Policies

These types of plans are generally referred to as  ”Travel Medical Plans”.  These types of plans are far more comprehensive in their scope of coverage with most of these plans offering plan maximums up to $1 million dollars in coverage and some offer Emergency Medical Evacuation benefits up to $500 thousand dollars in coverage.  Deductibles for these plans will range from as low as $0 dollars up to $2,500 with some companies.  These types of policies are really much like our own domestic short-term policies.  Yes coverage is certainly better but these plans usually are limited to no more than 180 days of coverage.  Perfect if you will not be gone more than 6 months.

Annual Renewable International Major Medical Policies

The Global Citizen who resides outside their home country for more than 6 months and maybe even years needs to consider more permanent options.  Renewable International Major Medical policies are designed to support the international lifestyles of those who travel to or from the United States for extended periods of business, leisure and study. If you leave home for six months or more, your health and financial security are at serious risk because of significant gaps found in most available insurance coverage and services. This risk is only heightened by limited knowledge of health and safety hazards around the world, including medical treatment from unfamiliar providers.

Because of the length of time Global Citizens spend away from home these individuals want the freedom to be able to seek medical treatment should the need arise in any country that is best suited to treat them including here in the United States.  Some plans are better than others and only a few of these plans are insured by U.S. Insurance Carriers.

To find out more about the plan types available and get rates for different plan options visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.  If you have questions please feel free to call us at (619) 435-6700.  I am sure we can help you through the maze and provide you with the additional information you seek.  Again, making the right decision before you go may be the most important one you make.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION…

Great Dental Plan for Families in Wyoming…

Live in Wyoming? Need Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance has become one of the most requested products from our agency.  Because we sell in over 20+ states it is sometimes difficult to wade through all the options available to the individual family.  Seeking dental insurance that will work for them in the area they live can be a bit confusing.

States like Wyoming make it even more difficult primarily because of the sparse population this state has.  Small populations make it really difficult to find comprehensive networks to seek services from.  Most of the dental plans on the market that are popular are PPO style plans.  These are great plans that offer tremendous value as long as you are able to seek services from a network provider.  But what if you live in a state that is more rural where dental networks are minimal or don’t exist at all.  Well, good news!  Assurant Health offers just the right option for people like us who live in the great state of Wyoming.

Assurant Health Plus Dental Plan

Assurant Health offers a solid alternative to the PPO plans that are so popular in larger metro areas.  Assurant Health’s dental plans pay CASH right to you and not the provider.  There are no networks at all – you simply choose who you want to go to for your dental services.  In addition there are no waiting periods to meet before dental benefits are paid.  Unique to Assurant Health is the policy benefits are reduced to 50% during the first policy year and then payments are made at 100% of the benefit allowed in years two and beyond.  This way you can see direct benefits from your dental plan from day one.

Assurant Health allows people up to age 70 in Wyoming to apply for coverage and renew their plan up to age 75.  There are three levels of coverage you can select from, Basic, Intermediate and Plus.  Each one offers a different level of reimbursement so you can somewhat tailor the plan that best meets your needs.

Preventive Services – Assurant Health’s dental plans allow two visits per year (one every 6 months) and like almost all dental plans there is no waiting period for this benefit.  But where this plan differs is that these dental plans will pay between $75 up to $100 for your preventive services on their “PLUS” plan (in CASH) which in most cases will cover most or all of your preventive visit costs.  Again, you can visit any dentist – no network restrictions.  In towns like Jackson Hole where virtually no networks exist it is your choice completely whom you seek services from.

Plan Benefits – With the Assurant Health dental plans you have the choice to submit your claims to Assurant after your visit and receive the CASH benefits direct or you can allow your dentist to submit the claims and receive the benefits in their office.  What is slightly different with Assurant Health is that the benefits that are paid are based on a schedule of defined benefits rather than a percentage of an allowed amount.

Because you have the complete choice in whom you select for your dental care it is up to you to negotiate the best deal for you and your family members.  Then simply submit your claims with receipts for reimbursement.  These plans are great for anyone who lives in a more rural part of the United States where networks may be limited or not available at all. And, the dental plans from Assurant offers benefit maximums from $500 per member per year up to $1,500.  The choice is yours.

Take a moment and listen to the presentation below.  It will only take a few minutes and it will walk you through the dental plans available.  You can play it as many times as you would like.  You will certainly have a better understanding if these plans will meet the needs of you and your family.

Applying for an Assurant Health dental plan is simple and easy to do.  Because there is no underwriting to do the enrollment process is guaranteed.  To get a free quote for you and your family click on the blue button.  When you are ready to apply simply complete your enrollment online.

If you have any questions at all about any of these dental plans call us at (619) 435-6700.  Feel free to visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.

Dental Plans Get Better All Of The Time…

3 Company’s Dental Plans To Consider

With the cost of health care continuing to climb out of control, many American families are having to make some really hard choices.  Major Medical premiums are at an all time high and most of the plans in the Individual Markets now require very high deductibles to be met first before any benefits are paid.  So not only does the average American have to deal with these front end costs, plus the monthly premiums, these types of plans don’t even address the dental needs of the average American family.

Lately we have seen some really solid dental plans hit the market that offer a variety of benefit levels plus substantial discounts on dental services when using network providers.  The cost of dental care is almost as scary as medical but few seem to talk about it.  If you have spent any time in a dental chair recently you probably know where I am coming from.  So what options exist for the individual family for dental insurance?  Well here are three companies you should consider depending on your needs.  With all three of these companies you can apply for their dental plans as a standalone product regardless of any other insurance you may have.

Option 1: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield offers stand alone dental plans in 12 states under the brand of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield as well as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia.  In almost all of these states the dental plans go by the name of Dental Blue.  For the most part there are two dental plans to choose from, the Basic Plan and The Enhanced or in some states they call this option “Essential 100/200″.

Preventive Services – The dental plans from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield have three basic areas that provide the plan member benefits or savings.  These plans first offer preventive services at no cost to the plan member (no waiting periods) and each plan member receives two preventive visits per year at no charge as long as you choose a provider that is part of the Anthem network in your state.

Plan Benefits – The second area where these plans offers benefits are the plan maximums which varies depending on the plan you select.  These plan benefits range from as low as $500 per year per plan member up to $1,250 per plan member in some states with most states offering a plan benefit maximum of $1,000.  This plan maximum benefit is in addition to the preventive services and plan discounts.  Waiting periods may apply depending on the level of service you receive from no waiting period at all to 6 month and 12 month waiting periods.

Network Discounts – The third area of benefit to the plan member and frankly the most overlooked is the substantial discounts that apply when you utilize a provider that is part of the Anthem network in your state.  It is important to note that these discounts apply from the moment your dental plan is effective.  Even if you are within a waiting period as long as you use a network provider you are only responsible to the discounted costs.  This represents real money in your pocket.

To find out more about the Dental Plans available in your state click on this link.  Please note that you may land on a page that is not specific to your state.  Simply click on the state of choice from the table at the top of the page.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO…

Option Two: HumanaOne

HumanaOne offers two great stand alone dental plans to choose from.  Their Preventive Plus plan and their new Loyalty Plus plan (not available in all states).  Each one of these plans meet different needs depending on your oral health.  The Preventive Plus is best suited for the individual who has good oral health and wants a comprehensive dental plan that focuses on Preventive and basic services.  The Loyalty Plus is more comprehensive in scope of coverage and includes benefits for major services.  Loyalty Plus has a higher plan maximum of $1,500 per plan member and other unique benefits highlighted below.

Preventive Services – Both dental plans from HumanaOne provide two preventive office visits per year with no waiting periods required.  These preventive services are covered at 100% as long as you use one of the network providers.

Plan Benefits - HumanaOne offers two really great plans that meet different needs.  As I mentioned above the Preventive Plus plan is best suited for the individual who has overall good oral health.  Preventive Plus offers a $1,000 per year maximum benefit per member, plus the two Preventive visits per year per member and the discounts that apply within the network.  Major services are not covered as part of the $1,000 benefit but discounts always apply.

Loyalty Plus is their latest plan and I really like it.  First of all it offers a $1,500 per year per member which next to the dental plans from Assurant Health is the highest annual benefit currently available in the individual markets.  Second, Loyalty plus has a single LIFETIME deductible that once it is met you never have to meet one again as long as you keep the policy in place.  All other dental plans out there have deductibles that must be met each year.

Loyalty Plus has no waiting period.  Instead benefits begin from day one and the Preventive Benefits increase each year for the first three years.  Both the percentage reimbursement levels and the annual maximum increase until the policy maximum levels are met.  And, you have the freedom to seek dental services inside the Humana network or out-of-network and the benefit levels remain the same.

The application process is done completely online and the policies are guaranteed issue.  If you would like to get a quote now click on the button below.  When you are ready you simply complete the application online. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO…

Option Three: Assurant Health Plus Dental Plan

Assurant Health offers a solid alternative to the PPO plans we have listed above.  Assurant Health’s dental plans pay CASH right to you and not the provider.  There are no networks at all – you simply choose who you want to go to for your dental services.  In addition there are no waiting periods to meet before dental benefits are paid.  Unique to Assurant Health is the policy benefits are reduced to 50% during the first policy year and then payments are made at 100% of the benefit allowed in years two and beyond.

Preventive Services – Assurant Health’s dental plans allow two visits per year (one every 6 months) and like all the plans there is no waiting period.  But where this plan differs is that the dental plan will pay up to $100 for your preventive services on their “PLUS” plan which in most cases this amount will cover most or all of your preventive visit costs.  Again, you can visit any dentist – no network restrictions.

Plan Benefits – With the Assurant Health dental plans you have the choice to submit your claims to Assurant after your visit and receive the CASH benefits direct or you can allow your dentist to submit the claims and receive the benefits in their office.  What is slightly different with Assurant Health is that the benefits that are paid are based on a schedule of defined benefits rather than a percentage of an allowed amount.

Because you have the complete choice in whom you select for your dental care it is up to you to negotiate the best deal for you and your family members.  Then simply submit your claims with receipts for reimbursement.  These plans are great especially if you live in a more rural part of the United States where networks may be limited or not available at all. Or, if you are the type of person who simply does not want to have to choose a provider in any network then these plans may be for you.  The choice is yours.

Like all of the plans on this page applying for Assurant Health is simple and easy to do.  Because there is no underwriting to do the enrollment process is guaranteed.  To read more about the dental plans from Assurant Health click on the link below.  To get a quote and apply when ready click on the blue button.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO…

If you have any questions at all about any of these dental plans call us at (619) 435-6700.  Feel free to visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.

New Changes Coming for Blue Shield of California…

As if there is not enough to be confused about…

Blue Shield of California just released a notification of their intentions to introduce an entirely new portfolio of health plans beginning July 1, 2012.  These new plans will be called “Shield Complete”.  This is going to create pandemonium for existing Blue Shield subscribers as these new changes are implemented.  So what does this mean for you if you are a current Blue Shield of California member?  You may want to call your agent asap and see how this may impact your family for a start…

Blue Shield has just announced to all of their agents that beginning July 1st they will no long be offering their current portfolio of health plans with four exceptions.  Blue Shield will CLOSE (to new members)  most of their “Old Portfolio” effective July 2, 2012.  The four plans that will remain will be:

• Shield Spectrum PPO 5500
• Shield Spectrum PPO 5000
• Access+ HMO Package
• Access+ Value HMO

All of their other plans will no longer be for sale in California.  This will have consequences for those of you who are current plan members.  This post is dedicated to bringing attention to these upcoming changes.  We will be adding all of the new Shield Complete plans to our website as soon as possible.  In the mean time watch your mail for information coming from Blue Shield of California - it is important that you read it this time.  I have seen this in the past and when an insurance carrier closes an entire block of their business it means that it is time to get out of those older plans any way you can.

My best guess is that because of all the changes being heaped upon the insurance industry because of the Health Care Reform Bill they are being forced to make these kinds of changes and deal with the financial repercussions these changes will bring.  Even if the Individual Mandate is shot down by the Supreme Court I would not be surprised to see major changes like this to continue in the future.

Some of the new Mandated benefits to be added as of July 1st are:

• Maternity is being added to all grandfathered and non-grandfathered plans.  This means that everyone will now have maternity as part of their health plan whether they want it or not.

Women’s Preventive Health Services – For all non-grandfathered plans – preventive health services benefits will be expanded to cover:

• Gestational diabetes screenings
• Contraceptives
• Tubal Ligations
• Breastfeeding supplies and counseling
• Domestic violence screening and counseling

Behavioral Health Treatment – Behavioral health treatment will be available for diagnosed conditions such as autism, Asperger Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder on all Blue Shield IFP Plans effective July 1, 2012.

Bottom line is this – even though you will be offered the ability to remain in your existing plan after your plan closes this will have an impact most definitely on future rates.  As the new plans come to market – all new sales will be directed into these new plans.  No new sales ($money$) will be going into any of the closed plans.  As time marches on these risk pools will more than likely diminish in size.  Healthy people will migrate out of these plans, people will move, change jobs, cancel their plans for financial reasons and if you do not take advantage of any offered plan transfers you could be left in a risk pool with fewer people to service future claim.  Your rates will climb and if the past is any measure your rates will climb very fast.

Everyone is screaming for health care reform – well someone has to pay for it and that person is you the policy holder.  Regardless of your position on this subject – you will soon be faced with a bridge to cross if you are a current Blue Shield of California policy holder.  Feel free to call me with questions and options at (619) 435-6700 or visit our website at www.IndividualHealth.com.  We are updating website information daily.

Purchasing The Right Health Plan For Your Family…

Shopping for health insurance can be a daunting task.  So many companies with so many plans to choose from.  It is enough to make you crazy especially when this is not at the top of your favorite things to do.  Today making the right choice is even more critical than at any other time.  Cost is today’s driving factor and many people are of the opinion that they have few if any choices.

In the Individual Markets (other than group insurance) one of the big challenges in addition to cost can be the health history of one or more members in your family.  Getting over the Underwriting hurdles that exist with just about every plan can sometimes be almost as challenging as the price of the plans.  But there are choices which is good and for some – an expensive major medical plan may not be the best fit for their family.

There are basically two types of health plans that people are buying today.  One is the Major Medical type plan and the other is a Cash Benefit plan.  The major medical plan is the product of choice for most people if they can afford it and if they can get through Medical Underwriting.  The Cash Benefit plan for some is a cost-effective alternative and the underwriting is simplified asking only a few questions.

So how do you know if your family is best served by a fixed cash benefit plan or the broad protection of an individual major medical?  Here are some questions you can ask yourself that may better help guide you:

• What current insurance coverage do you have and why are you looking to change?
• How do you plan to use your coverage?
• What trade-offs are you willing to make between budget, usage and level of coverage?
• What complaints if any do you have about health insurance?
• What is your total health insurance budget, including premium and out-of-pocket costs?
• Have you had trouble applying for major medical coverage in the past?

These are just a few things to ask yourself.  The good news is there really are some really good choices out there.  One company, Assurant Health sells both types of plans discussed in this post. Their CoreMed Major medical plans is one of the most flexible products they offer as it allows you to somewhat customize the plan to meet your families needs.  In addition you can add supplement plans such as Dental and Accident Insurance to your plan all in one application.  Because CoreMed major medical plans provide 100% coverage for many preventive care office visits, with no deductible you can save money by not selecting a copay option when you apply.  Use the savings you will experience to apply towards the Dental and Accident coverage if you want.

Click on Image for Presentation

If the major medical plans are a bit too expensive and you would prefer a plan that helps you with everyday common medical expenses and you are willing to give up the security of the out-of-pocket maximum that the major medical plan offers then a Cash Benefit plan might better suit your need.  In addition the Cash Benefit plans help pay more of the front-end costs and meet the needs of a great many of Americans just fine.  Below is a presentation for the Health Access plan from Assurant Health.  Check it out – you may find that this works just fine for you family and the cost is much more sustainable for many families.

Click on Image for Presentation

I like both of these products and each one serves the needs of most Americans.  If you would like to get a quote click on the appropriate links below.  When you are ready to apply you do so online.  If you have questions or would like to talk further about your individual needs give us a call (619) 435-6700 or email us at sales@individualhealth.com.

Assurant Health CoreMed Plan

Assurant Health Access Plan

Blue Shield of California Makes 2% Pledge…

Blue Shield of California recently made a 2% pledge.  So what does this mean to the consumer.  In California many people do not realize that Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of California are two separate companies that compete directly against each other.  In the case of Blue Shield they are a Not For Profit Company while Anthem Blue Cross is owned by WellPoint – a For Profit Company with Shareholders.

Last year Blue Shield made the commitment to their members that if in any year they earn more than 2% net income they would return the difference between what they earned and the 2% threshold back to their members.  So far there has been two times in the past 6 months where plan members received a credit on their premiums.

Blue Shield believed that by capping their income it is a step towards helping make health insurance more affordable.  Blue Shield of California has long supported federal healthcare reform and they have undertaken several initiatives to help control costs but this is the boldest step they have taken so far.

Since they made this 2% pledge public they have returned monies to their customers, both Group and Individual.  They did so by giving a credit against one month’s dues.  In addition Blue Shield was to provide $10 million in funding to California hospitals and physician groups to help them build information technology systems, such as electronic medical records, that will allow them to participate more effectively in accountable care organizations.  Finally the were to provide $3 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation, which provides grants to the healthcare safety net.

I think this is a good move by Blue Shield of California and for those who saw a reduction in their monthly premiums when these credits were given I am sure this move was well received.  This is one of the few times in my career where an Insurance Company returned so much.  Hopefully these will continue as long at they are able to show a profit of more than 2%.