Health insurance costs vary from person to person and depend on a number of factors. We shall now discuss each of those factors briefly.
Firstly, health insurance premium depends on how many people the cove rage is for. If you are taking individual health insurance coverage, it is going to be much cheaper than family health insurance. But on a per person basis, family health insurance is a better option. This is because, the insurance company has more number of people under one billing. This way they are assured of more payment and lesser bills. So it's always prudent to go for family health insurance under one single umbrella if you are going to be the one paying for the whole family.
Secondly, it depends on the physical and mental condition of the person in question. If the said individual is old, then he or she might have to pay a lot more than a younger person. This is because they will fall into a higher risk category. As humans age, we are bound to have more health issues and this will in turn result in mounting health bills.
Thirdly, it would largely depend on your lifestyle. What are your habits? Do you smoke? Are you under the influence of controlled substance like drugs? Are you an alcoholic? All these are questions which you will be asked by the company physical when you go for your check up prior to sealing a deal.
Even your physical characteristics will be taken into account. A complete check up will be done, including ECG, X rays, and blood tests, urine tests etc. your height and weight will be compared to see whether you fall under a favorable body mass index. All of these will get you points, based upon which you will again be categorized as healthy or high risk.
And then lastly, the costs also depend on the benefits or conveniences that you seek. Are you willing to drive down to the centralized medical center affiliated to the insurance company or do you want to be able to run down to your local health clinic? Do you want coverage for all your prescription drugs? Do you want extra coverage for things like maternity services, infant care, ophthalmologist, or dentist fees?
And lastly, be sure to negotiate the deal. There is no such thing as a sealed rate for the premium. If you get back to your agent he will be more than willing to help you out.
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