Health Insurance
What is Health Insurance?
Health insurance is one of the most valued benefits offered by employers or purchased by an individual. This type of insurance comes in three types: HMO (health maintenance organization), PPO (preferred provider organization, EPO (exclusive provider organization), and POS (point of service organization).
Each of these health insurance options offers a specific set of benefits, varying in cost. Choosing the right plan for you or a family requires understanding what a plan provides in benefits. A local insurance agent can explain your options and help you decide the plan that will best match your needs and budget. If you have a medical provider, clinic, or hospital you trust, the provider must be contracted in the health insurance plan’s health network. Health insurance policies have a list of the in-network medical professionals you can review before settling on a plan.
Dental Insurance
Some health insurance plans offer the option to include dental insurance, which discounts a range of dental services. Review the benefits of a health insurance plan if you are interested in a plan that offers dental insurance coverage. You can also purchase a stand-alone dental insurance plan.
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance pays a monthly benefit should you become incapacitated and unable to earn a living. The benefits paid are a certain percentage of the income you would have earned had you continued to work. The duration of the benefits, the amount paid, and whether you are required to seek other employment before becoming eligible for benefits varies from policy to policy.
If you or a loved one has specialized health care needs, some health insurances, specifically Medicare, SSDI, Medicaid, and SSI Disability, are available. In addition, under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance companies cannot deny people who apply for health insurance who have preexisting health conditions.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance covers the cost of services an individual needs when they cannot care for themselves. These policies can provide benefits to pay for in-home care, the cost of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or an adult daycare center. Standard health insurance policies do not cover long-term care, and Medicare pays for only short-term stays at nursing facilities.
It is advised that you purchase long-term care insurance in your younger years, as the cost is less. As the years pass, the rates increase. Most insurance companies will not issue long-term care policies to people aged 75 and older. Rather than depleting your estate to pay for the cost of a nursing home, long-term care insurance is an intelligent way to protect your assets.
Vision Insurance
If you wear glasses or contacts, vision insurance can deliver significant savings. A vision insurance plan reduces the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. Some health insurance plans include vision insurance and others don’t. You can purchase a stand-alone vision insurance plan for lower out-of-pocket costs of vision correction services, including eye exams, eyeglasses, frames, and contact lenses.
Life can bring unexpected problems, such as an injury accident. You may have health insurance but could face serious financial losses if you suffer an accidental injury. This type of insurance can be a lifesaver, as it pays many out-of-pocket costs incurred, based on the terms of the policy:
- Emergency medical treatment.
- Hospital costs.
- Medical tests and exams.
- Transportation costs.
- Accommodations.
How Accidental Insurance Works
Accidental insurance is typically affordable. Just like other insurance policies, you will pay a monthly premium. The coverage and premium costs vary based on the policy and the insurance company. Always work with an insurance professional to select an appropriate policy, as they vary in what they cover.
What Accidental Insurance Covers
These policies cover injuries listed as “qualified,” which may be broken limbs, accidental amputations, lacerations, or injuries that led to paralysis. Speak with your insurance agent to understand which injuries are listed as “qualifying.” If you suffer a qualifying injury, your accident insurance will issue a check to you directly. These policies also pay your named beneficiaries if you do not survive the accident.
An accidental insurance policy can work as a supplement to your health insurance, covering the out-of-pocket expenses of your deductible and copay requirements. If you cannot work, some policies will cover your mortgage payments, rent, utility bills, and other expenses.
An Extra Layer of Protection
An injury accident can have serious physical and financial consequences. Depending on the policy, you will receive a lump sum payment if you have a qualifying injury. Health insurance is expensive, and most people have a fairly high deductible. Accident insurance policies help you make it through the tough times by paying for the additional expenses that are not covered by your health insurance or disability insurance coverage.
An accident can happen to anyone at any time. Planning for the unexpected by putting accident insurance in place can be a wise decision. Contact us to discuss your options and which policy best suits you and your family.
Cancer insurance is a special type of policy that provides an extra layer of protection to your health coverage. If you are diagnosed with cancer, your health insurance may not provide you with the extent of financial support you need. These policies pay for various out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Health insurance copays.
- Deductibles.
- Transportation for medical treatments.
- Groceries.
- Rent or mortgage payments.
Cancer Insurance & You
Cancer is not rare. About 39.5% of people are diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. Cancer insurance can be a lifesaver if you are diagnosed. The costs incurred during the treatment phase can add up quickly. You may need help with child care or other household expenses during your course of treatment and care, and this insurance can be of great assistance.
Cancer Insurance vs. Critical Illness Insurance
Some insurance companies offer critical illness insurance, which covers a range of illnesses, such as heart attack, stroke, or other qualifying illnesses. Cancer and critical illness insurance are generally very affordable for younger people, with premiums increasing as you age, but are generally still reasonable in cost.
Every policy is different. Some have lump-sum payouts, while others pay for the medical expenses you incur due to cancer up to a specific limit. If you are considering cancer insurance, contact our insurance agent to evaluate and explain the current options on the market and help you choose the policy that will make the most sense for you and your family.
Critical illness insurance protects you against the risk of exceeding the coverage of your health insurance plan. Health insurance covers the cost of treatment up to a specific limit. If you or your family member suffers a serious or catastrophic injury or illness, your health insurance plan may not cover the full cost. This insurance can save you from financial ruin, covering the cost of medical care for several health conditions that can exceed coverage from ACA health insurance, including:
- Strokes.
- Heart attacks.
- Cancer treatments.
- Coronary bypass surgeries.
- Organ transplant surgeries.
A Unique Type of Coverage
The benefits of critical illness insurance include paying for costs that are not covered by traditional health insurance. It can pay for other illness-related costs, such as childcare, transportation, or other financial needs. The insurance typically pays out a lump sum based on the specific policy.
What is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance?
Each critical illness insurance policy provides specific coverage. It is necessary to fully understand the fine print when purchasing this type of insurance, as only specifically named illnesses are covered. If you have a high-deductible health insurance plan, this type of insurance can pay for a range of out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Medical services that are not covered by your health insurance plan.
- Treatments your health insurance doesn’t cover.
- The costs associated with daily living while recovering from an illness.
- The costs associated with refitting the home environment, such as wheelchair access, elevator, or another refit.
Choosing the Right Critical Illness Insurance Plan
Every critical illness insurance plan has specific coverage. It’s important that you choose the plan that best suits your budget and that you fully understand what is covered and what isn’t. Our local agent can advise you about the policy that makes the most sense for your situation.
The Health Insurance Marketplace was established to make it possible for people in the USA to evaluate the various types of health insurance for deductibles, costs, and coverage. This resource is operated by the federal government or by your state, depending on where you live. Small businesses can shop for health insurance at the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), where small business owners can compare plans to offer their employees.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
This government resource is designed to make it easy for individuals, families, and small business owners to:
- Compare the available health insurance plans in your state.
- Discover any tax credits related to health insurance.
- Determine eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Open Enrollment on the Health Insurance Marketplace
The Marketplace has a specific “open enrollment period.” If you missed the open enrollment period, you may still be able to get health insurance during a “special enrollment period.” You become eligible for a special enrollment period for specific life events, such as having a child, getting married, divorced, moving, or a new job, and others.
You & Your Health Insurance
While the Marketplace is geared to help people identify the right health insurance, it can be surprisingly difficult to know what policy to choose. Many people choose to work with a local insurance agent for guidance. You may not be sure which plan is best for you and your family or whether you are eligible for special enrollment or enhanced subsidies to help you pay your premiums.
When You Need Guidance
Our local agents are available to help you navigate the marketplace and choose the health insurance plan that will be best for your situation and budget.
Having the right health insurance in place is important. Not only do you need the right coverage at an affordable rate, but also access to the healthcare providers you trust for the services you and your family need. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you find the best fit in an individual and family health insurance plan.
Copays, Deductibles, and Coinsurance
There is much to consider in selecting a health insurance plan. In addition to the cost of the coverage and the providers on the plan, you will also want to consider the details below.
How much is the copay?
The copay (copayment) is the flat fee you pay every time you go to the doctor or fill a prescription. Some visits may not require a copay. Many plans pay 100% for preventative care and annual checkups.
How much is the deductible?
The deductible is the amount you pay every year in eligible medical services and medications before your insurance plan goes into effect. If your deductible is $500, you pay $500 out of pocket in eligible medical costs before insurance payments start.
Is there coinsurance, and how much is it?
Coinsurance is the portion of your medical costs you are required to pay after your deductible is met and your plan kicks in. For example, if your coinsurance is 20%, you pay 20% of your eligible medical expenses, and your insurance company pays the remaining 80%.
Cost of Individual & Family Health Insurance
Many different factors will impact what you pay for health insurance. Generally, the more you pay in monthly premiums, the higher the percentage of your medical costs your health insurance plan will cover. An agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can assist you in choosing a plan.
Regular oral care can help prevent diseases and affect overall quality of life. People with dental insurance are much more likely to visit their dentist on a routine basis and receive consistent care. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you choose an individual dental plan so you can get the ongoing care you need.
Choosing an Individual Dental Plan
Oral health and individual dental plan needs vary according to age. For example, people in the 20 to 39 age group have fewer dental problems, while people ages 40 to 59 are more likely to need restorative procedures, such as root canals and crowns. In evaluating a dental plan, it is wise to consider:
- How many dentists are in the network? Dentists who participate in networks accept lower fees.
- Does the plan encourage preventative care? Preventative care reduces long-term dental costs and impacts overall healthcare costs.
- How quickly are calls answered, claims paid, and problems resolved? You want to have confidence in the quality of service your plan provides.
- Does the plan offer enhanced benefits for people with medical conditions? Many carriers offer enhanced benefits for little or no additional cost to people with health conditions such as diabetes, cardiac disease, and pregnancy.
Cost of Individual Dental Insurance
Individual dental insurance premiums vary widely depending on the type of plan you choose – HMO (with a more restrictive network), PPO (you can use a non-network dentist but pay more out of pocket), or indemnity (you choose your dentist, pay upfront, submit a claim, and wait for reimbursement). A Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency agent can help you find a plan that fits your budget and provides the best benefits for you and your family.
Individual disability insurance is an excellent way to help protect your income and financial standing if you suffer a disabling injury or illness. If you need more protection for your paycheck, contact our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to talk about individual disability insurance.
Why Buy Individual Disability Insurance?
When you stop to think about it, your paycheck is what makes the lifestyle you have possible. Sometimes the unexpected happens. If you were unable to work because of an illness or injury, how would you pay your mortgage, utilities, car payment, credit cards, and countless other expenses? How long could you get by without a paycheck?
Unexpected medical problems, accidents, and injuries can get in the way of earning an income. Individual disability insurance can help you protect what matters most and pay your expenses if you are unable to work because of an illness or injury.
Disability insurance is designed to cover more than catastrophic accidents that result in injuries. Illnesses such as cancer and multiple sclerosis can also have a dramatic impact on your ability to work and support your family. In fact, the vast majority of disabilities are the result of an illness or health condition.
Disability Insurance Costs
The price of disability insurance will vary per individual. Pre-existing health conditions can increase the cost of this insurance, and may not be covered for the first year of the policy. Factors that affect premiums include:
- Current salary
- Age
- Smoking status
- Health conditions
Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you shop for the best available rates on an individual disability insurance policy to protect your income and your way of life.
Our health can deteriorate as we get older, and no one wants to place a burden on the family. Long-term care (LTC) insurance provides protection should you require extra help in the future.
Group insurance policies often cost less than coverage you purchase on your own. In the case of long-term care insurance, however, you may be able to get equal or better coverage for less money with an individual policy. Contact an agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to explore individual long-term care insurance options.
When Is Individual Long-Term Care Insurance a Better Choice?
The cost of long-term care insurance offered through your employer may be more than you need to pay. When purchased on an individual basis, many LTC policies offer discounts that can result in substantial savings for good health or including a spouse/partner on the policy.
Good Health Discounts: Depending on your age, the underwriter for the insurance company may request health information for evaluation. If you are in good health, you may qualify for a significant discount, typically 10%. Even if your health changes in the future, you won’t lose the discount.
Spouse/Partner Discounts: Marital or spousal discounts can reduce the amount each individual pays for long-term care insurance by as much as 40%. With combined savings for a couple, the cost may add up to only 20% more than a single LTC policy.
Individual Long-Term Care Insurance Costs
Age is a major determining factor in the cost of individual long-term care insurance – five years can make a significant difference. Other major factors impacting premiums are general health and whether you purchase coverage singly or as a couple. If you are considering individual LTC insurance, our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you find a policy that provides the best benefits and suits your budget.
About 75 percent of Americans need vision correction, whether through glasses, contacts, or surgery. As a result, vision insurance is one of the most popular health and wellness plans, as it reduces the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. In addition, some vision insurance plans offer more benefits, with discounts on LASIK surgery and some other elective vision correction treatments.
Vision Insurance – What’s Right for You?
A regular eye exam is as essential to maintaining your health as undergoing a yearly physical. An eye exam can identify developing eye health conditions in the initial stages when treatments can be far more effective. If you or your loved ones wear glasses or contacts, the prescription typically changes over time, and a yearly exam is critical to maintaining healthy, sharp vision.
How Does Vision Insurance Work?
Vision insurance may be part of your benefits package or purchased separately by an individual. Vision insurance differs from a typical health insurance plan, which covers the cost of medical treatments with copays, or covers the entire cost of care when the deductible is met.
Rather than covering the entire cost of your eye care, vision insurance works as an ongoing discount card to significantly reduce the cost of eye exams, eyeglasses, and contacts, with some plans offering discounts on the cost of LASIK surgery. However, you may be required to use an in-network provider to take advantage of the discounts.
What is the Cost of Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance is typically affordable. If you, your spouse, or your children wear glasses, vision insurance helps reduce the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. Health insurance covers the cost of treating eye injuries and other serious medical problems, but without vision insurance, you will pay the total price for eye exams and the purchase of new glasses, lenses, frames, and contacts. In addition, some health insurance companies offer “bundled” health insurance plans that include vision, dental, and health insurance.
To review the options for vision insurance, get help from a local insurance agent who can explain the benefits of each plan and help you choose the best plan for your family and your budget.
Short-term health insurance is designed to provide temporary health insurance during a lapse in coverage. This type of insurance protects against the risk of incurring expensive medical bills if you experience an unexpected illness. This type of coverage may be needed in several situations:
- Missed the ACA (Obamacare) open enrollment period.
- Waiting for the open enrollment period.
- Changes in employment, awaiting benefits to begin.
- Lost health insurance at work.
- Covered by parents, and are now 26.
- Bridging the time gap before Medicare starts.
How Does Short-Term Health Insurance Work?
Short-term health insurance is a unique type of insurance, differing from other plans. These temporary health insurance plans provide coverage for 30 days to 12 months. These health insurance plans, based on the plan you select, can cover:
- Illnesses.
- Injuries.
- Inpatient, outpatient hospital care.
- ER visits.
Benefits of Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance offers several benefits:
- Fast approval process, generally within a day or two.
- Several plan choices with different deductibles.
- Select a policy length from one month to one year.
- Premiums are lower than standard (ACA) insurance plans.
How is a Short-Term Health Insurance Plan Different from Obamacare Plans?
ACA insurance plans are required to cover people with preexisting conditions, but short-term health insurance plans do not have this requirement. Each insurer varies in the coverage provided by their short-term health insurance plans. It is important that you understand what the plan offers before you buy so your temporary health insurance best suits your situation.
If you need temporary health insurance, our local agents can explain the various plans and help you select the plan that suits your budget and your needs.
What is Health Insurance?
Health insurance is one of the most valued benefits offered by employers or purchased by an individual. This type of insurance comes in three types: HMO (health maintenance organization), PPO (preferred provider organization, EPO (exclusive provider organization), and POS (point of service organization).
Each of these health insurance options offers a specific set of benefits, varying in cost. Choosing the right plan for you or a family requires understanding what a plan provides in benefits. A local insurance agent can explain your options and help you decide the plan that will best match your needs and budget. If you have a medical provider, clinic, or hospital you trust, the provider must be contracted in the health insurance plan’s health network. Health insurance policies have a list of the in-network medical professionals you can review before settling on a plan.
Dental Insurance
Some health insurance plans offer the option to include dental insurance, which discounts a range of dental services. Review the benefits of a health insurance plan if you are interested in a plan that offers dental insurance coverage. You can also purchase a stand-alone dental insurance plan.
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance pays a monthly benefit should you become incapacitated and unable to earn a living. The benefits paid are a certain percentage of the income you would have earned had you continued to work. The duration of the benefits, the amount paid, and whether you are required to seek other employment before becoming eligible for benefits varies from policy to policy.
If you or a loved one has specialized health care needs, some health insurances, specifically Medicare, SSDI, Medicaid, and SSI Disability, are available. In addition, under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance companies cannot deny people who apply for health insurance who have preexisting health conditions.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance covers the cost of services an individual needs when they cannot care for themselves. These policies can provide benefits to pay for in-home care, the cost of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or an adult daycare center. Standard health insurance policies do not cover long-term care, and Medicare pays for only short-term stays at nursing facilities.
It is advised that you purchase long-term care insurance in your younger years, as the cost is less. As the years pass, the rates increase. Most insurance companies will not issue long-term care policies to people aged 75 and older. Rather than depleting your estate to pay for the cost of a nursing home, long-term care insurance is an intelligent way to protect your assets.
Vision Insurance
If you wear glasses or contacts, vision insurance can deliver significant savings. A vision insurance plan reduces the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. Some health insurance plans include vision insurance and others don’t. You can purchase a stand-alone vision insurance plan for lower out-of-pocket costs of vision correction services, including eye exams, eyeglasses, frames, and contact lenses.
Accidental Insurance
Cancer Insurance
Critical Illness Insurance
Health Insurance Marketplace
Individual & Family Health Insurance
Individual Dental Insurance
Individual Disability Insurance
Individual Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance
Individual Vision Insurance
Short-Term Health Insurance
Accidental Insurance
Life can bring unexpected problems, such as an injury accident. You may have health insurance but could face serious financial losses if you suffer an accidental injury. This type of insurance can be a lifesaver, as it pays many out-of-pocket costs incurred, based on the terms of the policy:
- Emergency medical treatment.
- Hospital costs.
- Medical tests and exams.
- Transportation costs.
- Accommodations.
How Accidental Insurance Works
Accidental insurance is typically affordable. Just like other insurance policies, you will pay a monthly premium. The coverage and premium costs vary based on the policy and the insurance company. Always work with an insurance professional to select an appropriate policy, as they vary in what they cover.
What Accidental Insurance Covers
These policies cover injuries listed as “qualified,” which may be broken limbs, accidental amputations, lacerations, or injuries that led to paralysis. Speak with your insurance agent to understand which injuries are listed as “qualifying.” If you suffer a qualifying injury, your accident insurance will issue a check to you directly. These policies also pay your named beneficiaries if you do not survive the accident.
An accidental insurance policy can work as a supplement to your health insurance, covering the out-of-pocket expenses of your deductible and copay requirements. If you cannot work, some policies will cover your mortgage payments, rent, utility bills, and other expenses.
An Extra Layer of Protection
An injury accident can have serious physical and financial consequences. Depending on the policy, you will receive a lump sum payment if you have a qualifying injury. Health insurance is expensive, and most people have a fairly high deductible. Accident insurance policies help you make it through the tough times by paying for the additional expenses that are not covered by your health insurance or disability insurance coverage.
An accident can happen to anyone at any time. Planning for the unexpected by putting accident insurance in place can be a wise decision. Contact us to discuss your options and which policy best suits you and your family.
Cancer Insurance
Cancer insurance is a special type of policy that provides an extra layer of protection to your health coverage. If you are diagnosed with cancer, your health insurance may not provide you with the extent of financial support you need. These policies pay for various out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Health insurance copays.
- Deductibles.
- Transportation for medical treatments.
- Groceries.
- Rent or mortgage payments.
Cancer Insurance & You
Cancer is not rare. About 39.5% of people are diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. Cancer insurance can be a lifesaver if you are diagnosed. The costs incurred during the treatment phase can add up quickly. You may need help with child care or other household expenses during your course of treatment and care, and this insurance can be of great assistance.
Cancer Insurance vs. Critical Illness Insurance
Some insurance companies offer critical illness insurance, which covers a range of illnesses, such as heart attack, stroke, or other qualifying illnesses. Cancer and critical illness insurance are generally very affordable for younger people, with premiums increasing as you age, but are generally still reasonable in cost.
Every policy is different. Some have lump-sum payouts, while others pay for the medical expenses you incur due to cancer up to a specific limit. If you are considering cancer insurance, contact our insurance agent to evaluate and explain the current options on the market and help you choose the policy that will make the most sense for you and your family.
Critical Illness Insurance
Critical illness insurance protects you against the risk of exceeding the coverage of your health insurance plan. Health insurance covers the cost of treatment up to a specific limit. If you or your family member suffers a serious or catastrophic injury or illness, your health insurance plan may not cover the full cost. This insurance can save you from financial ruin, covering the cost of medical care for several health conditions that can exceed coverage from ACA health insurance, including:
- Strokes.
- Heart attacks.
- Cancer treatments.
- Coronary bypass surgeries.
- Organ transplant surgeries.
A Unique Type of Coverage
The benefits of critical illness insurance include paying for costs that are not covered by traditional health insurance. It can pay for other illness-related costs, such as childcare, transportation, or other financial needs. The insurance typically pays out a lump sum based on the specific policy.
What is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance?
Each critical illness insurance policy provides specific coverage. It is necessary to fully understand the fine print when purchasing this type of insurance, as only specifically named illnesses are covered. If you have a high-deductible health insurance plan, this type of insurance can pay for a range of out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Medical services that are not covered by your health insurance plan.
- Treatments your health insurance doesn’t cover.
- The costs associated with daily living while recovering from an illness.
- The costs associated with refitting the home environment, such as wheelchair access, elevator, or another refit.
Choosing the Right Critical Illness Insurance Plan
Every critical illness insurance plan has specific coverage. It’s important that you choose the plan that best suits your budget and that you fully understand what is covered and what isn’t. Our local agent can advise you about the policy that makes the most sense for your situation.
Health Insurance Marketplace
The Health Insurance Marketplace was established to make it possible for people in the USA to evaluate the various types of health insurance for deductibles, costs, and coverage. This resource is operated by the federal government or by your state, depending on where you live. Small businesses can shop for health insurance at the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), where small business owners can compare plans to offer their employees.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
This government resource is designed to make it easy for individuals, families, and small business owners to:
- Compare the available health insurance plans in your state.
- Discover any tax credits related to health insurance.
- Determine eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Open Enrollment on the Health Insurance Marketplace
The Marketplace has a specific “open enrollment period.” If you missed the open enrollment period, you may still be able to get health insurance during a “special enrollment period.” You become eligible for a special enrollment period for specific life events, such as having a child, getting married, divorced, moving, or a new job, and others.
You & Your Health Insurance
While the Marketplace is geared to help people identify the right health insurance, it can be surprisingly difficult to know what policy to choose. Many people choose to work with a local insurance agent for guidance. You may not be sure which plan is best for you and your family or whether you are eligible for special enrollment or enhanced subsidies to help you pay your premiums.
When You Need Guidance
Our local agents are available to help you navigate the marketplace and choose the health insurance plan that will be best for your situation and budget.
Individual & Family Health Insurance
Having the right health insurance in place is important. Not only do you need the right coverage at an affordable rate, but also access to the healthcare providers you trust for the services you and your family need. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you find the best fit in an individual and family health insurance plan.
Copays, Deductibles, and Coinsurance
There is much to consider in selecting a health insurance plan. In addition to the cost of the coverage and the providers on the plan, you will also want to consider the details below.
How much is the copay?
The copay (copayment) is the flat fee you pay every time you go to the doctor or fill a prescription. Some visits may not require a copay. Many plans pay 100% for preventative care and annual checkups.
How much is the deductible?
The deductible is the amount you pay every year in eligible medical services and medications before your insurance plan goes into effect. If your deductible is $500, you pay $500 out of pocket in eligible medical costs before insurance payments start.
Is there coinsurance, and how much is it?
Coinsurance is the portion of your medical costs you are required to pay after your deductible is met and your plan kicks in. For example, if your coinsurance is 20%, you pay 20% of your eligible medical expenses, and your insurance company pays the remaining 80%.
Cost of Individual & Family Health Insurance
Many different factors will impact what you pay for health insurance. Generally, the more you pay in monthly premiums, the higher the percentage of your medical costs your health insurance plan will cover. An agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can assist you in choosing a plan.
Individual Dental Insurance
Regular oral care can help prevent diseases and affect overall quality of life. People with dental insurance are much more likely to visit their dentist on a routine basis and receive consistent care. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you choose an individual dental plan so you can get the ongoing care you need.
Choosing an Individual Dental Plan
Oral health and individual dental plan needs vary according to age. For example, people in the 20 to 39 age group have fewer dental problems, while people ages 40 to 59 are more likely to need restorative procedures, such as root canals and crowns. In evaluating a dental plan, it is wise to consider:
- How many dentists are in the network? Dentists who participate in networks accept lower fees.
- Does the plan encourage preventative care? Preventative care reduces long-term dental costs and impacts overall healthcare costs.
- How quickly are calls answered, claims paid, and problems resolved? You want to have confidence in the quality of service your plan provides.
- Does the plan offer enhanced benefits for people with medical conditions? Many carriers offer enhanced benefits for little or no additional cost to people with health conditions such as diabetes, cardiac disease, and pregnancy.
Cost of Individual Dental Insurance
Individual dental insurance premiums vary widely depending on the type of plan you choose – HMO (with a more restrictive network), PPO (you can use a non-network dentist but pay more out of pocket), or indemnity (you choose your dentist, pay upfront, submit a claim, and wait for reimbursement). A Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency agent can help you find a plan that fits your budget and provides the best benefits for you and your family.
Individual Disability Insurance
Individual disability insurance is an excellent way to help protect your income and financial standing if you suffer a disabling injury or illness. If you need more protection for your paycheck, contact our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to talk about individual disability insurance.
Why Buy Individual Disability Insurance?
When you stop to think about it, your paycheck is what makes the lifestyle you have possible. Sometimes the unexpected happens. If you were unable to work because of an illness or injury, how would you pay your mortgage, utilities, car payment, credit cards, and countless other expenses? How long could you get by without a paycheck?
Unexpected medical problems, accidents, and injuries can get in the way of earning an income. Individual disability insurance can help you protect what matters most and pay your expenses if you are unable to work because of an illness or injury.
Disability insurance is designed to cover more than catastrophic accidents that result in injuries. Illnesses such as cancer and multiple sclerosis can also have a dramatic impact on your ability to work and support your family. In fact, the vast majority of disabilities are the result of an illness or health condition.
Disability Insurance Costs
The price of disability insurance will vary per individual. Pre-existing health conditions can increase the cost of this insurance, and may not be covered for the first year of the policy. Factors that affect premiums include:
- Current salary
- Age
- Smoking status
- Health conditions
Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you shop for the best available rates on an individual disability insurance policy to protect your income and your way of life.
Individual Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance
Our health can deteriorate as we get older, and no one wants to place a burden on the family. Long-term care (LTC) insurance provides protection should you require extra help in the future.
Group insurance policies often cost less than coverage you purchase on your own. In the case of long-term care insurance, however, you may be able to get equal or better coverage for less money with an individual policy. Contact an agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to explore individual long-term care insurance options.
When Is Individual Long-Term Care Insurance a Better Choice?
The cost of long-term care insurance offered through your employer may be more than you need to pay. When purchased on an individual basis, many LTC policies offer discounts that can result in substantial savings for good health or including a spouse/partner on the policy.
Good Health Discounts: Depending on your age, the underwriter for the insurance company may request health information for evaluation. If you are in good health, you may qualify for a significant discount, typically 10%. Even if your health changes in the future, you won’t lose the discount.
Spouse/Partner Discounts: Marital or spousal discounts can reduce the amount each individual pays for long-term care insurance by as much as 40%. With combined savings for a couple, the cost may add up to only 20% more than a single LTC policy.
Individual Long-Term Care Insurance Costs
Age is a major determining factor in the cost of individual long-term care insurance – five years can make a significant difference. Other major factors impacting premiums are general health and whether you purchase coverage singly or as a couple. If you are considering individual LTC insurance, our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you find a policy that provides the best benefits and suits your budget.
Individual Vision Insurance
About 75 percent of Americans need vision correction, whether through glasses, contacts, or surgery. As a result, vision insurance is one of the most popular health and wellness plans, as it reduces the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. In addition, some vision insurance plans offer more benefits, with discounts on LASIK surgery and some other elective vision correction treatments.
Vision Insurance – What’s Right for You?
A regular eye exam is as essential to maintaining your health as undergoing a yearly physical. An eye exam can identify developing eye health conditions in the initial stages when treatments can be far more effective. If you or your loved ones wear glasses or contacts, the prescription typically changes over time, and a yearly exam is critical to maintaining healthy, sharp vision.
How Does Vision Insurance Work?
Vision insurance may be part of your benefits package or purchased separately by an individual. Vision insurance differs from a typical health insurance plan, which covers the cost of medical treatments with copays, or covers the entire cost of care when the deductible is met.
Rather than covering the entire cost of your eye care, vision insurance works as an ongoing discount card to significantly reduce the cost of eye exams, eyeglasses, and contacts, with some plans offering discounts on the cost of LASIK surgery. However, you may be required to use an in-network provider to take advantage of the discounts.
What is the Cost of Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance is typically affordable. If you, your spouse, or your children wear glasses, vision insurance helps reduce the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. Health insurance covers the cost of treating eye injuries and other serious medical problems, but without vision insurance, you will pay the total price for eye exams and the purchase of new glasses, lenses, frames, and contacts. In addition, some health insurance companies offer “bundled” health insurance plans that include vision, dental, and health insurance.
To review the options for vision insurance, get help from a local insurance agent who can explain the benefits of each plan and help you choose the best plan for your family and your budget.
Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance is designed to provide temporary health insurance during a lapse in coverage. This type of insurance protects against the risk of incurring expensive medical bills if you experience an unexpected illness. This type of coverage may be needed in several situations:
- Missed the ACA (Obamacare) open enrollment period.
- Waiting for the open enrollment period.
- Changes in employment, awaiting benefits to begin.
- Lost health insurance at work.
- Covered by parents, and are now 26.
- Bridging the time gap before Medicare starts.
How Does Short-Term Health Insurance Work?
Short-term health insurance is a unique type of insurance, differing from other plans. These temporary health insurance plans provide coverage for 30 days to 12 months. These health insurance plans, based on the plan you select, can cover:
- Illnesses.
- Injuries.
- Inpatient, outpatient hospital care.
- ER visits.
Benefits of Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance offers several benefits:
- Fast approval process, generally within a day or two.
- Several plan choices with different deductibles.
- Select a policy length from one month to one year.
- Premiums are lower than standard (ACA) insurance plans.
How is a Short-Term Health Insurance Plan Different from Obamacare Plans?
ACA insurance plans are required to cover people with preexisting conditions, but short-term health insurance plans do not have this requirement. Each insurer varies in the coverage provided by their short-term health insurance plans. It is important that you understand what the plan offers before you buy so your temporary health insurance best suits your situation.
If you need temporary health insurance, our local agents can explain the various plans and help you select the plan that suits your budget and your needs.
Life can bring unexpected problems, such as an injury accident. You may have health insurance but could face serious financial losses if you suffer an accidental injury. This type of insurance can be a lifesaver, as it pays many out-of-pocket costs incurred, based on the terms of the policy:
- Emergency medical treatment.
- Hospital costs.
- Medical tests and exams.
- Transportation costs.
- Accommodations.
How Accidental Insurance Works
Accidental insurance is typically affordable. Just like other insurance policies, you will pay a monthly premium. The coverage and premium costs vary based on the policy and the insurance company. Always work with an insurance professional to select an appropriate policy, as they vary in what they cover.
What Accidental Insurance Covers
These policies cover injuries listed as “qualified,” which may be broken limbs, accidental amputations, lacerations, or injuries that led to paralysis. Speak with your insurance agent to understand which injuries are listed as “qualifying.” If you suffer a qualifying injury, your accident insurance will issue a check to you directly. These policies also pay your named beneficiaries if you do not survive the accident.
An accidental insurance policy can work as a supplement to your health insurance, covering the out-of-pocket expenses of your deductible and copay requirements. If you cannot work, some policies will cover your mortgage payments, rent, utility bills, and other expenses.
An Extra Layer of Protection
An injury accident can have serious physical and financial consequences. Depending on the policy, you will receive a lump sum payment if you have a qualifying injury. Health insurance is expensive, and most people have a fairly high deductible. Accident insurance policies help you make it through the tough times by paying for the additional expenses that are not covered by your health insurance or disability insurance coverage.
An accident can happen to anyone at any time. Planning for the unexpected by putting accident insurance in place can be a wise decision. Contact us to discuss your options and which policy best suits you and your family.
Cancer insurance is a special type of policy that provides an extra layer of protection to your health coverage. If you are diagnosed with cancer, your health insurance may not provide you with the extent of financial support you need. These policies pay for various out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Health insurance copays.
- Deductibles.
- Transportation for medical treatments.
- Groceries.
- Rent or mortgage payments.
Cancer Insurance & You
Cancer is not rare. About 39.5% of people are diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. Cancer insurance can be a lifesaver if you are diagnosed. The costs incurred during the treatment phase can add up quickly. You may need help with child care or other household expenses during your course of treatment and care, and this insurance can be of great assistance.
Cancer Insurance vs. Critical Illness Insurance
Some insurance companies offer critical illness insurance, which covers a range of illnesses, such as heart attack, stroke, or other qualifying illnesses. Cancer and critical illness insurance are generally very affordable for younger people, with premiums increasing as you age, but are generally still reasonable in cost.
Every policy is different. Some have lump-sum payouts, while others pay for the medical expenses you incur due to cancer up to a specific limit. If you are considering cancer insurance, contact our insurance agent to evaluate and explain the current options on the market and help you choose the policy that will make the most sense for you and your family.
Critical illness insurance protects you against the risk of exceeding the coverage of your health insurance plan. Health insurance covers the cost of treatment up to a specific limit. If you or your family member suffers a serious or catastrophic injury or illness, your health insurance plan may not cover the full cost. This insurance can save you from financial ruin, covering the cost of medical care for several health conditions that can exceed coverage from ACA health insurance, including:
- Strokes.
- Heart attacks.
- Cancer treatments.
- Coronary bypass surgeries.
- Organ transplant surgeries.
A Unique Type of Coverage
The benefits of critical illness insurance include paying for costs that are not covered by traditional health insurance. It can pay for other illness-related costs, such as childcare, transportation, or other financial needs. The insurance typically pays out a lump sum based on the specific policy.
What is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance?
Each critical illness insurance policy provides specific coverage. It is necessary to fully understand the fine print when purchasing this type of insurance, as only specifically named illnesses are covered. If you have a high-deductible health insurance plan, this type of insurance can pay for a range of out-of-pocket costs, including:
- Medical services that are not covered by your health insurance plan.
- Treatments your health insurance doesn’t cover.
- The costs associated with daily living while recovering from an illness.
- The costs associated with refitting the home environment, such as wheelchair access, elevator, or another refit.
Choosing the Right Critical Illness Insurance Plan
Every critical illness insurance plan has specific coverage. It’s important that you choose the plan that best suits your budget and that you fully understand what is covered and what isn’t. Our local agent can advise you about the policy that makes the most sense for your situation.
The Health Insurance Marketplace was established to make it possible for people in the USA to evaluate the various types of health insurance for deductibles, costs, and coverage. This resource is operated by the federal government or by your state, depending on where you live. Small businesses can shop for health insurance at the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), where small business owners can compare plans to offer their employees.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
This government resource is designed to make it easy for individuals, families, and small business owners to:
- Compare the available health insurance plans in your state.
- Discover any tax credits related to health insurance.
- Determine eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Open Enrollment on the Health Insurance Marketplace
The Marketplace has a specific “open enrollment period.” If you missed the open enrollment period, you may still be able to get health insurance during a “special enrollment period.” You become eligible for a special enrollment period for specific life events, such as having a child, getting married, divorced, moving, or a new job, and others.
You & Your Health Insurance
While the Marketplace is geared to help people identify the right health insurance, it can be surprisingly difficult to know what policy to choose. Many people choose to work with a local insurance agent for guidance. You may not be sure which plan is best for you and your family or whether you are eligible for special enrollment or enhanced subsidies to help you pay your premiums.
When You Need Guidance
Our local agents are available to help you navigate the marketplace and choose the health insurance plan that will be best for your situation and budget.
Having the right health insurance in place is important. Not only do you need the right coverage at an affordable rate, but also access to the healthcare providers you trust for the services you and your family need. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you find the best fit in an individual and family health insurance plan.
Copays, Deductibles, and Coinsurance
There is much to consider in selecting a health insurance plan. In addition to the cost of the coverage and the providers on the plan, you will also want to consider the details below.
How much is the copay?
The copay (copayment) is the flat fee you pay every time you go to the doctor or fill a prescription. Some visits may not require a copay. Many plans pay 100% for preventative care and annual checkups.
How much is the deductible?
The deductible is the amount you pay every year in eligible medical services and medications before your insurance plan goes into effect. If your deductible is $500, you pay $500 out of pocket in eligible medical costs before insurance payments start.
Is there coinsurance, and how much is it?
Coinsurance is the portion of your medical costs you are required to pay after your deductible is met and your plan kicks in. For example, if your coinsurance is 20%, you pay 20% of your eligible medical expenses, and your insurance company pays the remaining 80%.
Cost of Individual & Family Health Insurance
Many different factors will impact what you pay for health insurance. Generally, the more you pay in monthly premiums, the higher the percentage of your medical costs your health insurance plan will cover. An agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can assist you in choosing a plan.
Regular oral care can help prevent diseases and affect overall quality of life. People with dental insurance are much more likely to visit their dentist on a routine basis and receive consistent care. Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, can help you choose an individual dental plan so you can get the ongoing care you need.
Choosing an Individual Dental Plan
Oral health and individual dental plan needs vary according to age. For example, people in the 20 to 39 age group have fewer dental problems, while people ages 40 to 59 are more likely to need restorative procedures, such as root canals and crowns. In evaluating a dental plan, it is wise to consider:
- How many dentists are in the network? Dentists who participate in networks accept lower fees.
- Does the plan encourage preventative care? Preventative care reduces long-term dental costs and impacts overall healthcare costs.
- How quickly are calls answered, claims paid, and problems resolved? You want to have confidence in the quality of service your plan provides.
- Does the plan offer enhanced benefits for people with medical conditions? Many carriers offer enhanced benefits for little or no additional cost to people with health conditions such as diabetes, cardiac disease, and pregnancy.
Cost of Individual Dental Insurance
Individual dental insurance premiums vary widely depending on the type of plan you choose – HMO (with a more restrictive network), PPO (you can use a non-network dentist but pay more out of pocket), or indemnity (you choose your dentist, pay upfront, submit a claim, and wait for reimbursement). A Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency agent can help you find a plan that fits your budget and provides the best benefits for you and your family.
Individual disability insurance is an excellent way to help protect your income and financial standing if you suffer a disabling injury or illness. If you need more protection for your paycheck, contact our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to talk about individual disability insurance.
Why Buy Individual Disability Insurance?
When you stop to think about it, your paycheck is what makes the lifestyle you have possible. Sometimes the unexpected happens. If you were unable to work because of an illness or injury, how would you pay your mortgage, utilities, car payment, credit cards, and countless other expenses? How long could you get by without a paycheck?
Unexpected medical problems, accidents, and injuries can get in the way of earning an income. Individual disability insurance can help you protect what matters most and pay your expenses if you are unable to work because of an illness or injury.
Disability insurance is designed to cover more than catastrophic accidents that result in injuries. Illnesses such as cancer and multiple sclerosis can also have a dramatic impact on your ability to work and support your family. In fact, the vast majority of disabilities are the result of an illness or health condition.
Disability Insurance Costs
The price of disability insurance will vary per individual. Pre-existing health conditions can increase the cost of this insurance, and may not be covered for the first year of the policy. Factors that affect premiums include:
- Current salary
- Age
- Smoking status
- Health conditions
Our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you shop for the best available rates on an individual disability insurance policy to protect your income and your way of life.
Our health can deteriorate as we get older, and no one wants to place a burden on the family. Long-term care (LTC) insurance provides protection should you require extra help in the future.
Group insurance policies often cost less than coverage you purchase on your own. In the case of long-term care insurance, however, you may be able to get equal or better coverage for less money with an individual policy. Contact an agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency in Modesto, California, to explore individual long-term care insurance options.
When Is Individual Long-Term Care Insurance a Better Choice?
The cost of long-term care insurance offered through your employer may be more than you need to pay. When purchased on an individual basis, many LTC policies offer discounts that can result in substantial savings for good health or including a spouse/partner on the policy.
Good Health Discounts: Depending on your age, the underwriter for the insurance company may request health information for evaluation. If you are in good health, you may qualify for a significant discount, typically 10%. Even if your health changes in the future, you won’t lose the discount.
Spouse/Partner Discounts: Marital or spousal discounts can reduce the amount each individual pays for long-term care insurance by as much as 40%. With combined savings for a couple, the cost may add up to only 20% more than a single LTC policy.
Individual Long-Term Care Insurance Costs
Age is a major determining factor in the cost of individual long-term care insurance – five years can make a significant difference. Other major factors impacting premiums are general health and whether you purchase coverage singly or as a couple. If you are considering individual LTC insurance, our agent at Sean Crisp & Associates Insurance Agency can help you find a policy that provides the best benefits and suits your budget.
About 75 percent of Americans need vision correction, whether through glasses, contacts, or surgery. As a result, vision insurance is one of the most popular health and wellness plans, as it reduces the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. In addition, some vision insurance plans offer more benefits, with discounts on LASIK surgery and some other elective vision correction treatments.
Vision Insurance – What’s Right for You?
A regular eye exam is as essential to maintaining your health as undergoing a yearly physical. An eye exam can identify developing eye health conditions in the initial stages when treatments can be far more effective. If you or your loved ones wear glasses or contacts, the prescription typically changes over time, and a yearly exam is critical to maintaining healthy, sharp vision.
How Does Vision Insurance Work?
Vision insurance may be part of your benefits package or purchased separately by an individual. Vision insurance differs from a typical health insurance plan, which covers the cost of medical treatments with copays, or covers the entire cost of care when the deductible is met.
Rather than covering the entire cost of your eye care, vision insurance works as an ongoing discount card to significantly reduce the cost of eye exams, eyeglasses, and contacts, with some plans offering discounts on the cost of LASIK surgery. However, you may be required to use an in-network provider to take advantage of the discounts.
What is the Cost of Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance is typically affordable. If you, your spouse, or your children wear glasses, vision insurance helps reduce the cost of regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts. Health insurance covers the cost of treating eye injuries and other serious medical problems, but without vision insurance, you will pay the total price for eye exams and the purchase of new glasses, lenses, frames, and contacts. In addition, some health insurance companies offer “bundled” health insurance plans that include vision, dental, and health insurance.
To review the options for vision insurance, get help from a local insurance agent who can explain the benefits of each plan and help you choose the best plan for your family and your budget.
Short-term health insurance is designed to provide temporary health insurance during a lapse in coverage. This type of insurance protects against the risk of incurring expensive medical bills if you experience an unexpected illness. This type of coverage may be needed in several situations:
- Missed the ACA (Obamacare) open enrollment period.
- Waiting for the open enrollment period.
- Changes in employment, awaiting benefits to begin.
- Lost health insurance at work.
- Covered by parents, and are now 26.
- Bridging the time gap before Medicare starts.
How Does Short-Term Health Insurance Work?
Short-term health insurance is a unique type of insurance, differing from other plans. These temporary health insurance plans provide coverage for 30 days to 12 months. These health insurance plans, based on the plan you select, can cover:
- Illnesses.
- Injuries.
- Inpatient, outpatient hospital care.
- ER visits.
Benefits of Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance offers several benefits:
- Fast approval process, generally within a day or two.
- Several plan choices with different deductibles.
- Select a policy length from one month to one year.
- Premiums are lower than standard (ACA) insurance plans.
How is a Short-Term Health Insurance Plan Different from Obamacare Plans?
ACA insurance plans are required to cover people with preexisting conditions, but short-term health insurance plans do not have this requirement. Each insurer varies in the coverage provided by their short-term health insurance plans. It is important that you understand what the plan offers before you buy so your temporary health insurance best suits your situation.
If you need temporary health insurance, our local agents can explain the various plans and help you select the plan that suits your budget and your needs.