There are several things that should come to mind when you are searching for health benefits.

1. What is the monthly premium?

The monthly premium can cost anywhere from $200 to well over $600 per month depending on what the plan covers. You want to shop around to be sure you are getting the best possible price for the best coverage.

2. What does each plan include?

When comparing plans to each other you need to make sure that the plans include the things you are going to need, for example do you need dental or vision, does it include hospital stays, what about emergency rooms?

3. Is there a limit on yearly coverage?

While searching you will come across several different companies offering numerous plans. Something to consider is how much coverage do they give you? I have found most companies have limits on what you are "allowed" to receive. We took our daughter to the dentist, the cost of her dental procedures was $1400, my insurance only covered $750 annually, leaving me with the remaining $650. So be sure that they give you the amount of coverage you think you will be needing.

4. Are there deductible to meet?

Many insurance companies will only cover the cost of procedures after you have met a deductible. Meaning you will be responsible for the first $2500 - $5000 of your health care cost before they start covering any of it.

5. Do they cover or accept preexsisting conditions?

One question that will arise while you are applying for these health plans is your current health conditions. If you have certain conditions most will consider you un-insurable. Which again will leave you out to dry, with no coverage.

6. Is you doctor or dentist in their network?

A question you need to ask the company before signing with them is for a list of providers. Always check to see if you physician or dental provider is in their network. An insurance company should have several hundred thousand providers in their network, to offer you the best choices when it comes to your health care.

7. Do they offer nationwide coverage?

Many insurance companies will only cover a certain part of the state you live in, or a certain area of the country. What if you are on vacation and need coverage? Make sure your new plan can be used across the country, so you are always covered.

8. Can you change doctors/dentists whenever you like?

When covered on many health insurance plans you will have to provide the company with a list of providers you intend on going to. To change your provider you will have to resubmit your paperwork, and you may have to wait upto a month before you can visit your new doctor.

9. Do you have to be referred for certain treatments or procedures?

Many times you will want certain tests, treatments or a procedure, but the insurance company will tell you to have them done you need to be referred by your physician.

10. Is there a waiting period?

When you finally decide on a plan, and get ready to sign the papers, you need to ask "When can I see the doctor?" Several insurance companies have waiting list, with the average wait being 90 days. So you will have to wait 90 days before seeing the doctor.

To wrap things up, insurance companies don't always look out for you, they look after themselves and their pockets. If they accept you with the preexsisting condtion, you might be costing them a fortune, so who are they looking after?

What if you could find a company that doesn't have premiums, cover everything, even cosmetic procdures, they have no limits on visits or services, no deductible, they do cover and accept preexsisting conditions, have over 500,000 network providers, offer nationwide coverage at no additional cost, you can change physicians when you want with no paperwork, you don't have to be referred, just get it done when you want it done, and there is absolutly no waiting period? That would be a perfect health benefits company...huh?

One that really looks after you, and what your wants and needs are. They are concerned for you. Just keep those 10 questions in mind when you are shopping around regarding your health, sometimes the old adage, "You get what you pay for", isn't true.