Discount Plans

Discount health insurance plans can be useful for some people looking to save money on their health care. But it’s important to note that these plans are not the same as actual health insurance. Discount health insurance plans don’t pay any of one’s health care costs. Instead, they require the customer to pay a fee for a list of health care providers and sellers of health-related products who are willing to offer discounts to members of the plan.

How do Discount Health Plans Work?

The plans typically work this way. For a low monthly fee, members of these discount plans gain access to wholesale rates similar to what large insurance companies will pay. It is a benefit to the member and the provider which gets the money up front with no paperwork to file. For example, some companies offer only the very basic health care options, while others offer a comprehensive package that includes doctors, specialists, ancillary care (labs, scans, hearing, etc.), dental, vision, prescription drugs, chiropractic, and hospitalization.

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Advantages of Discount Health Plans

The obvious advantage of using a discount health insurance plan is the fact that it is possible for a member of the plan to get savings on medical services and supplies, even if they happen to be uninsured. Considering the high, often excessive costs of health insurance, this would seem to be a good option for people who can’t afford an actual insurance coverage plan.

Disadvantages to Discount Health Insurance Policies

However, there are a few concerns to think about. For one thing, some people could give up their current health coverage, mistakenly believing that they have found a better insurance deal, resulting in these people having no coverage for catastrophic injuries, illnesses, or hospital stays. Secondly, these discount insurance plans are sometimes not the good deal they appear to be, as there are occasionally extra or hidden fees that drive the cost up into the realm of actual insurance premiums.

Overall, discount insurance programs can be helpful, and a workable option for those who lack health insurance. But one must be aware of the limitations and risks involved, and not be fooled or lulled into believing that these discount plans offer the complete coverage and security of actual health insurance policies.

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