Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the right plan for you. Therefore buying an individual health insurance policy is a smart financial move that also offers the benefits of being customizable and portable. If you have a major accident and your insurance will not cover the hospital bills, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical debt that could bankrupt you. Without adequate medical insurance you put both your physical health and your financial at risk. Health insurance ranks up there with home, auto, and life insurance as one of those policies that you absolutely must have in order to protect yourself.

The easiest way to go about this is to talk to your doctor and see what types of insurance they accept and buy from the companies on their list. Health Network – If you currently have a health care provider that you like working with then you will need to make sure that he accepts the insurance you wish to buy. If you get an individual health insurance plan that your doctor does not take, you will either have to find a new doctor or pay the out of network fees every time you go to see him.

Instead of wasting time filling out several applications, you will only have to enter information once and the insurance companies will advise you of their answer. This will save you a lot of time. A good way to find out who is willing to extend coverage to you is to visit a website that allows you to get quotes from multiple insurance companies at the same time. Even though one company may have rejected your application does not mean you will be denied health insurance at all of them. Another option is to check with other health insurance providers. Each insurance company has their own guidelines when it comes to underwriting a policy.

Pre-Existing Conditions – Some insurance companies will deny you coverage if you have a pre-existing condition. While you cannot control their decisions it is definitely something you want to keep in mind when shopping for individual health insurance. This is because if they do accept you as one of their clients, you may be charged a higher premium or you may have to wait for a year to 18 months before they will pay any medical bills associated with your disease. To prevent any surprises, this is something that you should plan for when buying health insurance.

Buying health insurance can be challenging but with time and patience you’ll find the right plan for you. You will be able to see the prices of multiple insurance companies and plans without having to travel all over the internet or work with a pushy insurance sales person. One way to shop for the lowest price on individual health insurance plans is to use a website that provides quotes on medical insurance. Cost of Premiums – Although the cost of your premiums should be the only factor involved in your decision as to which plan you buy, it is something to be considered especially if you don’t have a lot of money.

Sean L Johnson is a journalist for Health Insurance Buyer a referral service that connects consumers to the insurance carriers that can best fit their wants or special needs. Click on link to access your free instant quote for health insurance half off the usual cost