For Texas residents family health insurance is usually offered
by employers. However, some medium and small businesses do not
offer health coverage. Self-employed Texans must find medical
insurance themselves. Those Texans who have low income jobs or
are unemployed must also seek access to health services for
themselves and their families. Fortunately, there are many
options.
The group insurance offered by employers is almost
always the most reasonably priced health coverage available.
Even if you think you can't afford it, you should try to find a
way to pay for it. You will not find a better deal!
Your next option should be checking out any professional
associations, unions, or fraternal organizations of which you
are a member. I live in Texas and for a couple of years I was
covered by group insurance through a freelance writers
association. The coverage was almost as good as that which I
received from the oil company that had previously employed me.
Unfortunately, the association did not pay a portion of the
premium, so I paid a much higher price. However, it was still
less than a private policy would have cost. Group insurance
acquired via this route may cover fewer conditions and have a
higher deductible. Also, you cannot be refused based on a
preexisting condition, although there may be a waiting period
before coverage for that condition kicks in.
For some Texas residents family health insurance may not be a
single plan or program. Depending on the circumstances,
individual family members may gain access to medical services
via different avenues. If your family is not insured find out if
you or any member of your family qualifies for Medicaid. In
Texas the Health and Human Services Commission determines this.
Anyone unable to pay high medical bills should inquire. There
are also provisions for low income families and children under
19, pregnant women, and young people leaving foster care.
Purchasing a private policy is quite expensive and sometimes
difficult. An insurance company can decline to insure you based
on current or previous health conditions. Each company has its
own set of rules, so keep trying until you find a carrier that
will provide coverage for you and your family. You will have a
choice between an indemnity plan and an HMO. Usually the
indemnity plan is more expensive, but provides the most
flexibility for the consumer. Before purchasing, be sure you are
dealing with a licensed agent.
