In this troubled economy, you are not alone if you are wondering what to do if you have no health insurance in Florida. Finding yourself without health insurance can be very troubling. Procedures, doctor’s visits, and emergencies can cost thousands of dollars without coverage. In Luckily, there are many options available. Going without insurance can lead to major financial and physical consequences down the road. Look over the following options and see what one works for you.
Option #1 Medicaid Or Medicare
Medicaid is a government funded health care program that uses tax payer dollars to pay for medical care for those who can’t afford coverage. Medicaid in Florida is available to those who meet certain eligibility requirements that are decided upon by the Department of Children and Families or the Social Security Administration depending on the age of the applicant.
Eligibility requirements include income levels, countable assets, age, family size, and living expenses. Medicaid helps many individuals and families who find themselves temporarily without health insurance for a variety of reasons. Applying for Medicaid can be done online and there are many different companies who have contracted with the State of Florida to provide Medicaid coverage.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those 65 and older. The only requirement is that you are 65 and then you will qualify for some level of coverage. Medicare is not a full coverage option and often levels gaps in coverage; but, it can provide those in their retirement years with basic coverage for medical needs.
Option #2 Cover Florida
Cover Florida is a unique health insurance program that has pros and cons. It was developed by legislation through the state government, but does not use tax dollars. It is for individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid, but still cannot afford health insurance. It is also for those who may not have insurance offered to them through an employer. Since it is not state funded, those who are covered have access to a wide variety of providers.
Cover Florida is a contract based health insurance program. This means that companies within Florida have contracted with the state to offer affordable, quality health insurance. Different counties have different options available. Premiums start at $83 per month and cover many typical medical situations. For those who don’t think they can afford coverage, Cover Florida is a good option. You must be without insurance for six months, or have lost a job that provided your insurance to qualify. While this coverage is certainly helpful, it is not guaranteed to meet all of your needs.
Option #3 Shop Around
Perhaps you don’t have insurance solely because you think it is too expensive. Maybe it is just a state of mind. There are many quality, affordable plans available today. Shopping around is a great way to compare different companies. Premium rates will vary based on age, health history, medical conditions, and life style choices. Seeing different options side by side can help you see what choices are available.
You can use the comparison tool on this page right now. The tool will show you rates and quotes from top companies so you can compare. If you have additional questions after you use the comparison tool, you can contact one of our independent agents who can help you. By shopping around you can rest assured that you found the right coverage for the right price.
Option #4 Choose A Licensed Company
That State of Florida Department of Insurance has licensed several companies to sell insurance in the state. These companies have been researched by the department and have met certain eligibility requirements. When a company is licensed with the state it means that you as the insured, have the right to file a complaint should your needs not be met. This provides a layer of protection between you and the insurance company.
Any of the companies licensed with the state can provide quality coverage. If you are without insurance, you can see what these companies have to offer and let them know the amount of money you have in your budget for insurance. Each company offers different coverage at different prices.
Option #5 Lower Your Risks For High Premiums
If you are without insurance because of the high cost of premiums, there are some things that you can do to lower your risks thus lower your premium. Most of these choices are lifestyle related. For example, those who are at a healthy weight will have a lower premium than those who are overweight. Some companies even give cash back and reimbursement incentives for healthy choices such as joining a gym.
Another lifestyle choice that raises premiums is smoking. Insurance companies know that smokers are at higher risk for lung cancer, heart disease, and high blood pressure. So in return, they charge higher premium rates to those who smoke. Quitting not only brings many health benefits, but also will lower you premium by $1,000 or more a year.
Option #6 Get Temporary Insurance
Temporary health insurance is a good choice for those who are in a temporary situation that leaves them without insurance. This type of coverage is ideal for those who have a seasonal job, have lost a job, are between jobs, have retired but don’t yet qualify for Medicare or those whose spouse has been laid off. Temporary insurance also works for students who aren’t covered under their parents’ insurance or just graduated and are looking for a job.
When you get temporary coverage, you can decide to pay on a month by month basis or to get a 6 month or 12 month plan. Usually, a month by month plan is more costly than paying for several months at one time. A temporary plan works a little differently as far as what is covered, what providers can be seen, or when coverage can be cancelled. If you find yourself in any of these situations, temporary insurance may be the solution.
Another good feature about temporary insurance is that typically you can be approved in 24 hours. Online applications can be done within a half hour and approval is made soon after. As soon as you are approved and make the first month’s payment, you have the coverage you need. If you lose your health insurance in Florida without notice, this may be a good option for you.
Get The FL Health Insurance You Need Today!
Though economic times are trying, there is no reason to go without health insurance. There are many options available for people in different situations, of varying income levels, for children, and for senior citizens. The Government of Florida, along with several insurance companies, has worked hard to make sure Floridians can get coverage. Now that you know some of the options available to you, you can find coverage. Use our free health insurance quote finder on this page to start comparing Florida health insurance rates and quotes right now!