Health Insurance Articles
Is A Mini-med The Answer For Your Health Insurance Needs
2010-01-12
Shopping for health insurance coverage these days is not for the faint of heart. In fact, the process is, at times, so confusing it is sickening. In fact, for some, it is an almost impossible task. For those who have already had a serious illness, the preexisting condition may bar them from getting coverage for that condition, and, in certain circumstances, their application for health care coverage could be turned down. As unemployment rises in the United States, more and more individuals are finding themselves without the group health insurance coverage they enjoyed as an employee. For those who are struggling to qualify for and obtain group health insurance, Mini-Meds could be the answer.
Mini-Med is a common term for what is actually a defined benefit health plan. Typically these plans are available at low cost in every state. The beauty of this type of insurance is that coverage is 100 percent guaranteed. Even if you have already been turned down for conventional health insurance coverage, a defined benefit health plan will insure you. In order to qualify you do not need to be employed - Mini-Med plans will cover a group of one. Additionally, applicants do not need to answer health questions and nearly anyone with a pulse would be accepted. These plans offer medical coverage that is very comprehensive and includes things like physician's office visits, prescription drug co-pays, hospital stays and outpatient surgery benefits. They will even cover pre-existing conditions as long as you have had 12 months of prior coverage without a lapse of more than 63 days. There are Mini-Med plans available with maternity coverage even where the individual is already pregnant.
But how do you know if this type of health insurance is right for you? If you are reasonably healthy or if your medical condition is under control, you will most likely be able to obtain a conventional health insurance policy. In this process, make sure to be careful and communicate all health issues during the underwriting process. Keep in mind that the defined benefit plans set specific limits for what health care providers get paid and what services they cover, which is how they afford to cover people who are considered to be "uninsurable."Therefore, if you qualify for an affordable traditional plan, you may want to opt out of the Mini-Med. If you have already been turned down or have a preexisting condition that is excluded from your policy, or have experienced a dramatic spike in your premium because of poor health, Mini-Med coverage is available at a reasonable cost and would be a good option for you and your family.
