Deciding on a Plan

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Top 10 Questions to Ask when Choosing a Health Plan

1. How much will it cost?
   
   
   • Consider the cost of monthly premiums, copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.
   • The plan with the lowest premium is not necessarily the least expensive plan
     
     
2. Are the doctors or hospitals you currently use, or want to use, in the network?
   
   
3. Do you prefer working through a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates your care, or would you prefer to select and see specialists without obtaining a referral from your PCP?
   
   
4. Is it important to you that a PCP coordinates all the paperwork for claims?
   
   
5. What coverage is included?
   
   
   • Prescription drug plan
   • Dental coverage
   • Vision coverage
     
     
6. If you have a chronic illness, such as asthma or diabetes, does the plan provide you the coverage you need?
   
   
7. Does the plan offer out-of-area coverage to you or anyone covered under your plan, in case of illness while traveling?
   
   
8. Does the plan have access to alternative therapies and services?
   
   

   •	Fitness clubs	•	Acupuncture	•	Eldercare management
   •	Weight-loss programs	•	Chiropractic care	•	Hearing aids
   •	Laser eye surgery	•	Massage therapy

   
   
9. Does the plan offer secure online access to your personal claims information?
   
   
10. Have you asked your friends and coworkers about their plans and whether they would recommend them to you?