New Site Helps Consumers with Health Insurance

Consumers who have been confused or intimidated by the complexity of health insurance now have a new way to take the first step towards getting the individual medical coverage they need. A new Web site, simplecoverage.org, provides information and guidance to help consumers quickly understand the basics of health insurance and how to find and select a health plan that’s right for them.

The site was developed by Consumers for Competitive Choice (C4CC) Education Fund Inc., a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide consumers with information and tools to make informed choices in the marketplace. More than 44 million Americans do not have health insurance and another 25 million have less health insurance than they need.

“We want these millions of people to realize that buying health insurance doesn’t have to be overly complicated,” said Robert Johnson, president for C4CC. “Our site demystifies the options and gives consumers the tools to make smart decisions.”

Simplecoverge.org explains in easy to understand language, the different types of coverage available and how to find insurance, evaluate plans and what to expect during the application process. For example, the Web site gives consumers suggested questions to ask when choosing individual medical coverage, such as:

• Will this plan cover routine check-ups and health care services, or do I have to pay these expenses?
• Can I use my own doctors and medical facilities?
• How much will I have to pay for premiums, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance?
• What health services are covered? How much will the policy pay for those services?
• If I pay more for deductibles and co-pays, will this save me money on premiums?
• Does the insurance offer discounts for using certain doctors?

In addition to the online information, simplecoverage.org offers consumers a downloadable brochure, “Health Coverage Made Simple.” The site was developed and is maintained with a grant from Assurant Health Foundation.