Affordable health insurance plans?
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Call some of the larger insurance carriers like BlueCross BlueShield, etc. They often offer good packages for a decent premium. They often also use the self-insured policy holders as a 'group' - this helps maintain rates. I'm not sure what you'll find for what you were previously paying - the main reason is because companies often pick up the 'larger portion' of the premiums. You might want to look into things like high deductible health plans that include HSAs (health savings accounts)... they offer some tax relief in addition to the benefits of regular health insurance... all in all, you need to look at all of your options, there's no easy answer.
It's sad that your company won't pick up that expense anymore, but healthcare costs are really going crazy. It's not necessarily the fault of any one person, it's just utilization of healthcare and overuse of things like ERs, diagnostic testing, etc... hope I could offer some help.
A great book for you is "Healthcare for Less" by Michelle Katz...I highly recommend you go to your local Barnes and Noble or order it on www.amazon.com asap. I bought the book when I needed to look for a better insurance company...you would be amazed at the discounts you can get from negotiating and the government programs that are available and the options.I would up getting an HSA which is great for me, but you might find something is better for you in your geographic area.DO you research!! This book will guide you! I have saved a tom of money after reading this book. In fact, I remember hearing a blurb about the author on a station in Boston and I think she went a few years without health insurance, got into a car accident, needed surgery, and negotiated her way through with minimal bills! All her advice in the book is great!
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