
[SIZE=-1]If you can't obtain comprehensive individual health insurance, you might be tempted to purchase one of the many lower-cost "affordable" plans, frequently marketed through associations. But experts say stay away because the premiums aren't worth their limited coverage.
If you're looking for a health plan, here's what to check for:
- Make sure it mentions all types of coverage, including hospitalization, in-patient and outpatient surgery, office visits, mental health care, physical therapy, and prescription drugs.
- Avoid plans that set fixed dollar or number limits on visits, such as four visits per year or $500 per hospital day.
- Look for disclaimers such as "This is not major medical coverage." Avoid a plan that calls itself "limited benefit" insurance.
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