Tips to Negotiate for Better Health Insurance
Thursday, August 10, 2017, 6:00 PM | Leave Comment
Choosing quality health insurance is a complex decision for many families and individuals.
There are several different factors to consider, and they all vary, depending on the individual and their situation.
The best way to ensure you and your family have the right plan is to ask for it.
As the customer, you have the right to ask questions and request options that meet your needs.
Here are a few tips to help you negotiate for the best possible health insurance.
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Clearly State Your Budget
The cost of healthcare has significantly increased over the years. For many people, health insurance feels more like a luxury than a necessity. Those fortunate enough to have this option should start negotiations by discussing your financial situation. This means being completely honest about what you need and what you can pay.
The insurance company knows nothing can be gained by enrolling you into a plan you cannot afford, which is a good bargaining chip.
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Agent vs. Customer Service
When you speak with a representative of an insurance company, their goal is to make a sale. However, the approach and tone of the conversation depends on the person with whom you are speaking.
Customer service and in-house sales employees may not be as open to negotiations because their wages aren’t directly affected.
Contacting an agent would be more productive. Agents rely on commissions, so they will be more inclined to find a more suitable plan for you and your family.
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Ask About Specific Benefits
The most important aspect of purchasing health insurance is the ability to use it when necessary.
Before enrolling in a plan, you should also discuss the medical care you need. Maybe you have a serious pre-existing condition, or need access to addiction recovery and treatments.
You should know if these benefits are covered, and whether or not they impact the cost or your ability to remain within the company’s network.
Some clinics and facilities like Casa Nuevo Vida Sober Living and similar places can help organize payment plans to make things easier as well.
There is no point in spending your hard-earned money if the product does not serve its purpose.
Access to quality healthcare is extremely important. In fact, it has become such a pressing issue over recent years that the government has made it a top priority.
Because there is so much at stake, you are not required to simply accept whatever plan is placed in front of you.
It would also be helpful to do some research on the health insurance options in your area. This knowledge may serve you well during negotiations.
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Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy.
