How to Compare Heath Insurance Rates

When shopping for health insurance rates, you will get quotes for differing amounts. Compare health insurance rates by finding out exactly what the premium covers.

Duration of Coverage

• Health insurance premiums that pay over longer periods of coverage may have lower rates. Because most premiums are paid monthly, find out if the insurance provider has a discounted rate for paying premiums quarterly or annually.

Medical Services

• Check which services are covered by different policies. The rates may not include certain medical services and will require you to purchase supplemental insurance. Some health insurance rates, for example, do not cover vision or dental services.

Deductibles

• California's Department of Managed Health Care defines a deductible as the amount you pay for all or some medical services before your health plan begins to pay. Compare the deductibles to determine how much you will be required to pay upfront. According to the District of Columbia's Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, health insurance programs with higher deductibles have lower premiums to compensate for higher out-of-pocket costs.