HHS HealthBeat (September 11, 2008)

Time to plan

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Rand Gardner with HHS HealthBeat.

How do you choose a health plan? You should start by asking yourself a lot of questions. First,think about how much coverage you need. Are you single or do you have a family? Do you or a family member have a chronic condition? Then look at the health plans available to you and find out what types of doctors’ visits, surgery or hospital services are included in each plan. Are prescription drugs or visits to the dentist or eye doctor included? And how much are you going to pay out of pocket

AHRQ Director Dr. Carolyn Clancy:

``It takes some homework, sometimes a lot of homework, but it’s worth it. The bottom line is it’s important to know how the plan works. Don’t wait until you need health care to ask those important questions.’’ (7 seconds)

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Rand Gardner.

Last revised: September, 11 2008