Children and Health Insurance: What to Look for in a Health Plan
Most health plans provide basic medical coverage, but the details are what count. The best plan for someone else may not be the best plan for you. For each plan you are considering, find out how it handles:
Physical exams and health screenings
Care by specialists
Hospitalization and emergency care
Prescription drugs
Vision care
Dental services
Care and counseling for mental health
Services for drug and alcohol abuse
Obstetrical-gynecological care and family planning services
Ongoing care for chronic (long-term) diseases, conditions or disabilities
Physical therapy and other rehabilitative care
Home health, nursing home and hospice care
Chiropractic or alternative health care, such as acupuncture
Experimental treatments
Some plans offer members health education and preventive care, but services differ. Ask questions such as:
What preventive care is offered, such as shots for children?
What health screenings are given, such as breast exams and Pap smears for women?
Does the plan help people who want to quit smoking?
Adapted from "Questions and Answers About Health Insurance," published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
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