Q: Why do I need health insurance if I’m healthy?

A: Even if you’re in excellent health, accidents or unexpected illnesses can happen to anyone, at anytime. Without health insurance, these events can take a serious toll on your long-term personal and financial well-being. Also, having health insurance makes it easier to get the regular check-ups (physicals, annuals, etc.) that you should be getting to ensure a lifetime of good health.

Q: Isn’t health insurance really expensive?

A: Not necessarily. Many affordable plans exist, and the amount you pay depends on what kind of coverage you need. If, for example, you’re young and healthy and a non-smoker, you can find a plan with low monthly premiums that provides protection in case of a catastrophe. Make sure to determine exactly what coverage you need before you purchase a plan; don’t pay for coverage you don’t need.

Q: What is short-term health insurance?

A: Short-term health insurance is coverage designed to fill small gaps in your permanent plan; for example if you’re between jobs or schools. These policies are relatively inexpensive and can go into effect very quickly, though they usually only last for about six months and tend not to provide comprehensive coverage.

Q: How do I know I’m getting the right plan?

A: Shopping around will help you understand the options available to you and the ways they stack up to each other in terms of monthly premiums, yearly deductibles, choice of doctors and overall coverage. If it seems like too much to sort through yourself, a health insurance broker can help answer your questions and suggest a plan that matches your needs.

Q: Do I have to pay for a health insurance broker?

A: Brokers are paid a commission by the health insurance company. The cost of your insurance should be the same whether you use a broker or not, and they can be very knowledgeable and helpful during the selection process.

Q: What factors affect my eligibility for health insurance?

A: That depends on which plan you apply for. However, as a rule, pregnant women and expectant parents cannot obtain individual plans. In addition, excessive tobacco use, extreme obesity and dangerous lifestyle choices may also affect your ability to receive coverage. Talk to your broker or directly to a health insurance carrier to find out more about each company’s policy.

Q: Will I be able to keep my doctor if I switch plans?

A: Each plan is different. If keeping a particular doctor is important to you, ask your broker or the insurance carrier if that doctor is part of their plan. Most carriers will post a list of the doctors in their network on their web site.

Q: What if I’m not happy with my plan?

A: Except in the case of short-term insurance, you are never contractually obligated to stay on a health plan you don’t like. You can terminate your coverage at any time, and switch to a new plan. Just make sure you don’t go uninsured in the meantime!