My Prosperous World

Available in a variety of Michigan health insurance plans, selecting the right policy leaves many consumers baffled and quite often with unsuitable policies or none at all. Shoppers, looking for the most affordable monthly premium, usually end up with medical coverage, garnering too many out-of-pocket costs. An inflating unemployment deficit and uninsured setbacks, coupled with skyrocketing hospital bills continue to plague Michigan’s financially distressed citizens.

Merely 50 percent of Americans, who have medical insurance, admitted that they were perplexed by what their health insurance covered. Many admitted to not understanding the difference between a deductible, coinsurance, and co-payment. As many other policyholders consider the verbiage of insurance policies to be so incomprehensible, they generally end up with medical coverage that costs exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses.

As a first time expectant mother, Wanda Jones, was excited about giving birth. However, the affordable premium health plan that she bought as a small business owner uncovered some unforeseen surprises. Ms. Jones thought that her $2000 deductible should cover the cost of her hospital bill, when she learned that it would be an additional $4000 for the delivery of her baby.

Market research shows that misconceptions about medical coverage are prevalent. “I find insurance literature too difficult to understand,” states Ms. Jones. Facing childbirth as a single parent Ms. Jones, a 32-year old proprietor of a craft store based in Ann Arbor, said that deductible cost more than her total savings account. “My decision to raise a child on my own would have been different. I should have asked for more information about my insurance options,” she concludes.”

According to Mike Novelli, president of MichiganHealthandLife.com, unethical insurance practices have tainted the industry. The problem is that many insurance agents are guilty of selling medical coverage without providing adequate information. “Obtain several quotes from a broker affiliated with a variety of Michigan health insurance plans,” recommends Mr. Novelli. He continues, “Obtain quotes from ethical agents demonstrating the following ethics:”

- Completely articulates the terms of the policy, emphasizing the difference between low cost premiums deductibles and other coinsurance out-of-pocket expenses.

- Never charges an application fee. (There is no cost to obtain a quote for Michigan health insurance).

- Provides helpful, professional advice and never uses aggressive tactics to persuade you to sign up for a policy.

For additional consumer information pertaining to medical coverage in Michigan, one of the best resources, featuring Michigan health insurance and free Michigan medical quotes is Michigan Health & Life.