Changes and Choices in Health Care

Health Care in the United States is changing rapidly. New health care choices and options are constantly being made available.

Twenty-five years ago, the majority of the people in the United States had indemnity insurance coverage. An indemnity insurance plan reimburses you for your medical expenses, regardless of who provides the service. In many situations, this amount is limited, therefore, making both the patient and the insurance each responsible for a portion of the bill.

However, today, more than half of all Americans who have health insurance are enrolled in some kind of managed care plan. These plans allow individuals ways to manage costs, use, and quality of the health care system. Different types of managed care plans work differently and include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO), and Point-of-Service (POS) plans. Chances are you have heard these terms before. But what do they mean….what are the differences between them….and what do these differences mean to you?

Another positive change in the healthcare industry is the introduction of SCHIP (State Children’s Health Insurance Program). This year, the US Congress is looking to increase the scope of SCHIP to provide greater state coverage for all uninsured children.

HSA’s (Health Savings Accounts) have become another hot trend in the health care industry. HSA’s combine high deductible health insurance with a tax-favored savings account, similar to a 401K.

Most likely, additional health care changes and choices will continue to be made available. That is why it is imperative you become knowledgeable and informed of your choices, compare them and choose the right option for you.

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