Health Care

Questions to ask about Health Care Benefits.

How much is the premium?
What is the employer contribution?
What is the employee contribution?
Is coverage available for spouse? children? Required contribution for including family members?

What type of health insurance?
Two common types
HMO - Health Maintenance Organization - care is coordinated through with an staff of physicians and medical personnel. Patient is required to use the predesignated service.
PPO - Preferred Provider Organization - employees select providers from a pre-approved list. Using a provider not in the network means the patient pays additional costs.

(It is your responsibility to use your health care network correctly. Whenever possible call and confirm your physician is still approved. You will be liable for extra costs which can quickly add up.)

How much is the co-payment?
Amount paid by employee for office visit or service.

How much is the deductible?
Initial amount for which you will be responsible. Larger deductibles help reduce premiums. Remember you will need to be able to cover this amount.

How much is the co-insurance?
Amount paid by employee to cover health care expenses

While Health care may not be your first priority when starting a job, insurance through employers is generally a better buy than individual policies. You belong to a group which means the group shares the risk. It may be difficult or impossible to join the company health plan later depending on their rules and open enrollment periods.