California Health Insurance - Affordable Health Insurance Quotes in California

Introduction to Health Insurance

Illness or non-work related injury can be financially devastating, especially when considering the rising cost of health care over the past 20 years. Health insurance can help protect you from large out-of-pocket health care expenses that can accumulate during an acute or chronic illness. If you have a job, your employer may provide group comprehensive major medical coverage. You can also purchase individual comprehensive major medical coverage privately or through an insurance agent or broker who is licensed by the State of California to sell health insurance products.

This guide summarizes the different types of health coverage and provides contact information should you experience a problem with your plan, agent or broker.

Health insurance pays for expenses incurred for diagnosis and treatment of covered medical conditions. There are many different types of health insurance plans available in California. If you have a choice, it is important to choose the plan that best fits your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle. Also, make sure that you are aware of the state or federal agency that regulates the type of health care plan you purchase in case you experience questions or problems. Each of the different ways of receiving health care services has advantages and disadvantages. It is in your best interest to become familiar with the different types of health insurance, so you know what may be available to you.

• Indemnity Policies (Traditional Fee-for-Service Insurance)
• Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs)
• Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs or Managed Care)
• Self-Insured Health Plans (Single Employer Self- Insured Plans)
• Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangements (MEWAs)