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When it comes to health insurance, there is no "one size fits all." Ideally, working for an employer who offers non-contributory health insurance is what most of us would aspire to. However, that is not a realistic scenario.

Finding affordable, adequate health insurance coverage is a huge problem in our country right now. If you are in a situation where you require certain medications and have no access to reduced rates on prescriptions you can almost bet the farm that you will be paying top dollar for the medications you need.

When considering a change in employment, scrutinizing the potential employers health insurance plan is a given. Sadly, many people look at everything about a new job except the health insurance plan, just lumping it together with a "benefit package." This could be a huge mistake. Contracting a debilitating illness or becoming an unwilling participant in an accident is not something that anyone can foresee.

This is particularly true with young singles. Life situations change and a health insurance plan that was adequate for a single person may not apply should he/she marry and even have children while employed. If their policy has no provisions for the addition of dependents in the future you can find your health insurance plan woefully inadequate. Take the time to project what your future situation might be and plan accordingly.

One of the most overlooked segments of our society are the self-employed. Depending on age and dependent requirements, the cost for individual coverage can be astronomical. If you are self-employed or a very small business owner, consider joining a local association like a chamber of commerce, better business bureau or some other type of business organization.

Many of these organizations offer access to health insurance that might otherwise be prohibitive on an individual basis. They often charge a membership fee to the organization. Sometimes even when you factor in several hundred dollars a year for membership dues, that small cost far outweighs the potential savings in premiums. Health insurance packages are often one of the most lucrative options these organizations have to assist in recruitment of new members.

If you do not fall into either of the categories above, you might investigate other potential group options. Fraternal organizations, unions and clubs may offer access to group rates. The important thing is to pursue every possible avenue with an eye toward obtaining access to group health insurance.

Unless you are in a category considered as "low income" that would afford you access to social health care you can plan on paying hefty premiums. If you have a pre-existing condition, your chances of obtaining affordable rates are statistically very low. But, there are some things you can do. Some tips to bear in mind are:

.. Shop very carefully. You now understand what some of the options are and how widely diversified policies can be.

.. Make certain you are looking at health insurance that is appropriate and adequate for your needs.

.. Read the fine print so you understand what is included and what is excluded.

.. Never buy a policy that covers a single disease.

.. Are there deductibles and if so, how much?

.. Does the coverage include major medical?

.. What is the maximum out of pocket expense you can expect to incur?

.. When does coverage begin?

.. Does the coverage include prescriptions?

.. Are lab fees and x-rays included?

.. Can you choose your own physician or select from a list of providers?

.. What is most important to you?

.. Does the coverage include dental, vision, maternity, well-baby care, etc.

If you are in that "no mans land" where you do not yet qualify for Medicare, Medicaid or any of the other social programs yet are too old for individual coverage you might take a look at AARP. It can provide a stop gap for that period of time while you are waiting to qualify for assistance.

If you are a young single parent, investigate any subsidized programs that might be available in your state. Many states have programs that will provide care for your children if not for yourself. These social programs are generally based on a sliding scale based on our income level and in many cases visits and prescriptions for your children might be free of charge.

With the skyrocketing costs of health care, no one should ever feel embarrassed or sacrifice the health of themselves or their loved ones by applying for any type of assistance that might be available to meet their needs. Until something happens to curb this upward spiral we must all take special steps to see that the most vulnerable members of our society receive the health care they need. . . namely, our children and our elderly.

Steven D. Smith is a licensed life and health insurance professional and CEO of SDS Financial, LLC. He is also the author of the "2008 Guide to Choosing and Using Your Health Insurance Plan" and "Your 2008 Health Insurance Guide". Other articles and books about Health Insurance written by Steven Smith can be found at his website http://www.prohealthquotes.com