Loss of income is the oldest kind of health insurance. Types of Insurers Medical care at present is provided by four organizations. Insurance companies issue all types of health insurance policies, on either an individual or group basis, covering hospital expense, surgical expense, physicians expense, loss of income, and major medical expense. Hospital and doctor affiliated groups , such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield, organized by medical societies and groups of physicians. Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans operate on a state and community enrollment, but to some extent accept individuals.
Family plans are available.
The plans vary with the area and the group being served, but offer a wide variety of services. Independent organizations are sponsored by consumer or community groups, employers, unions, private medical groups, fraternal or religious orders, etc. Independent plans vary, some provide only hospitalization benefits, others complete medical care. Plans in general provide comprehensive medical care at home, doctor's office, group clinic or hospital. Panels of doctors practice in a group arrangement and patients pay a monthly level premium in order to receive periodic checkups and total health care as covered.