Amid the hectic pace of her talent booking and public relations business, Kathy Hanis has been studying a stack of slick brochures. Hanis, the owner of Entertainment Plus Inc. in Westwood, is shopping for an individual health insurance policy. I'm evaluating rates and benefits to see what would be best for me. Their search is complicated by the fact that health insurance costs keep climbing. But no matter what their circumstances, those in the market for health insurance need to scrutinize their options and find the plan that will best serve them and their families.
Experts advise insurance shoppers to ask lots of questions.
Some plans may have a more limited panel of health care providers. Consumers should make sure a health plan offers the kinds of medical specialists they need, O'Neil said. Prospective plan members also should check whether the available health providers practice in locations that are easy to get to. Some shoppers for individual policies get hit with sticker shock. It is by far my single biggest expense.