Insuring the Uninsured: Very Few Ineligible for Some Form of Health Insurance

While there continues to be much debate over the need for healthcare reform in the United States, much media focus continues to involve the statistics reflecting the number of uninsured. With millions of adults and children not insured, today, the burden on our society can be overwhelming.

If you are a family with members who are not carrying health insurance, there are those healthcare advocates who would argue that health insurance coverage is available. Even for the most chronically ill or those who have elected to retire early, losing health benefits from an employer, there are options for securing health insurance coverage.

Being mindful that health insurance is not always intended to pay every aspect of your health care needs. In fact, in many cases, health insurance is needed to simply protect you and your family in the event of a catastrophic illness or injury.

Finding health insurance to protect your family from the financial effects of a catastrophic illness can be as simple as contacting a broker for assistance. In many cases, the premiums may be slightly higher than what was paid through your employer, and the coverage may not provide protection from dollar one, but it is health coverage nonetheless.

Purchasing a high deductible policy is the option many uninsured Americans are opting for with the premiums tax-deductible in most cases. With a high deductible policy, your family may be eligible for a healthcare savings plan which is an interest bearing account that provides for tax free withdrawals when used for medical expenses.

If you are self employed, or work for a very small company, you may also opt for coverage through a trade association. In many cases, the buying power of many individuals who have hobbies or self-employment in your trade, can produce an effective result of driving group health coverage rates down.

Working part time in some states may also provide your family with eligibility for insurance coverage. In states such as Florida, you can simply work 25 hours per week and obtain healthcare coverage through your employer as if you were working fulltime.