by: Jeff Lakie

With the ever-increasing cost of health care, procedures and
medicines, it's no wonder that the cost of health insurance has also
dramatically risen over the past few years. But as that's happened,
insurance companies and the government have seen the potential
negative impact of families and individuals without insurance. There
are some things you can do if you don't have health insurance.

A federal mandate requires that all 50 states have a health
insurance program for children. Each state was allowed to create a
plan tailored to the needs of children in that state, but there are
some things that are the same from one state to the next. The first
is eligibility.

Government funded health programs typically have very stringent
income guidelines. These health insurance programs have income
requirements, but the criteria allow higher income than most
programs.

Another criteria for participation is that the child isn't covered
by any other health insurance. That differs from most programs in a
very important way. Most programs say that if the family has access
to insurance, they aren't eligible. That means that parents who have
employer-based insurance don't qualify. But many of the
employer-based plans are too expensive, and workers sometimes simply
can't afford the premiums. This program is designed to help fill
that gap.

These programs don't cover families - only children. But there are
some great benefits for those who qualify. Some states offer mental
health benefits, transportation to and from appointments and
dental/vision benefits.

If your children don't qualify for this program, or if you're in the
market for individual health insurance for an adult or private
insurance for a family, you have some options. Even though insurance
is typically very expensive, you can take some steps to control
costs.

You can eliminate extras such as vision and dental coverage, and
increase deductibles to lower the cost of your insurance premiums.
Look for policies that don't include maternity benefits and cancer
plans as more affordable general health insurance plans. Basic
coverage will likely be less expensive than an all-inclusive health
insurance program.

Finally, shop before you make a decision. Even if you're offered
employer-based insurance, you might find a better deal elsewhere
(depending on the amount of employer participation). Look to
professional groups for discounts and advice.


About the author:
Jeff Lakie is the founder of Insurance Resources a website providing
information on Insurance