This is the time of year when many are shopping for healthcare coverage. But, before you sign up, you may want to check things out to avoid having problems later.
Whether buying an individual plan or something offered through your employer, make sure to ask questions about how, when, and where you can obtain covered services, how much the insurer will pay and how much you can expect to pay out of pocket. Get these details in writing. Verify that the plan is legitimate and is considered to be qualified under the Affordable Care Act. And, pay attention to deadlines and the process for enrolling.
Common problems that people tend to run into when searching and signing up for coverage involve a misunderstanding of coverage and plans, or how to complete the enrollment process. Consumers have complained that they were mislead into believing that a plan was qualified and comprehensive, only to learn too late that coverage is very limited or non-existent, or that a plan was not qualified which could lead to costly penalties. There have also been issues when an enrollee learns that a family member was not listed and it is too late to make a correction.
For more information on shopping for health insurance, contact the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance.
This site provides good information about qualified and comprehensive plans that are available in Wisconsin as well as other things to consider during the search and enrollment process.
