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Digital News Report –Anthem Blue Cross in California recently changed the terms of their individual policies prompting notices to customers. Customers may be able to change their current plan without underwriting.
Not all health insurance plans are the same. There are several for-profit carriers in California, including Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Health Net, Aetna and Kaiser.
There are many variables that go into underwriting a health insurance policy. Pre-existing conditions, age and employment can affect the monthly premium. The older a person gets the more difficult and more expensive to acquire coverage.
The Vital Shield Plus 900 Generic Rx policy from Blue Shield of California for a 41-year old recipient will cost $212 per month. The PPO policy has a deductible of only $900. The plan has 30 percent coinsurance and $30 office visits (four of them).
Age plays a big role in rates. A 31-year old would only pay $136 for the same policy.
Blue Cross offers a wide range of plans in California. One of their best sellers is the ClearProtection Plus 5000 plan. This PPO will cost a 31-year old $71 per month. This plan offers a $5,000 deductible and 40 percent coinsurance. The office visits include a $40 co-pay.
Obviously the lower cost plans will have a higher deductible and higher office visit costs. The monthly savings may be worth it.
By Tina Brown