Important terms to understand when choosing health insurance

Health insurance is something that everyone needs to have but it is one of the most confusing types of insurance. You will be asked to choose a policy to cover your healthcare needs and in some cases, it will seem like you are comparing apples and oranges. How can you make an informed choice when things are so different from one carrier to another?  You need to understand exactly what some of the insurance terms mean and by talking to the experienced team at  San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ you can feel more confident with your decision. 

In order to choose the healthcare policy that makes the most sense for you, comparing copays, deductibles, networks, and formularies is important. Knowledge is power and knowledge will help you make the best decision for you. 

Copay

A copay is the portion of a medical expense that is your portion to pay. It can be a percentage or it may be a set amount. Examples are the amount you pay when you visit your doctor or the amount they ask upfront when you go in for blood work or Xrays. 

Deductible

The deductible is the amount of money you must pay before your policy goes into effect. High deductible policies are popular because they are less expensive but the reality is that if you don’t meet the deductible very few if any expenses will be paid. 

Formulary

This is the list of drugs that are covered under a plan. Drugs are assigned to a tier and each tier has a copay and some may also have a deductible. You should check which tier any drugs you take fall into. 

Network

These are the doctors and health facilities that you may use for coverage on your plan. Checking to make sure your personal doctor is in Network is something to do before signing on the dotted line. 

Call the San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ to make an appointment to discuss your health insurance needs. 

Auto Insurance Facts vs Myths

Before purchasing auto insurance in Chandler, AZ, make sure you know the facts. Auto insurance myths could cause you to make costly mistakes in choosing your coverage. At San Marcos Insurance Group, we’ll help you separate fact from myth to ensure you get the protection you need without wasting money.  

Myth: You Only Need Minimum Liability Coverage

Fact: Arizona requires that you have minimum auto liability coverage to protect others in accidents you cause. Liability insurance, however, won’t protect you against theft or cover repair costs to your vehicle if it’s damaged in a crash. By adding collision, comprehensive and uninsured motorist coverage to your policy, you’ll receive greater protection against accidents, which could save you thousands of dollars in repairs out of pocket. 

Myth: Men pay higher auto insurance rates than women.

Fact: This may be true for young men and teens as they’re often viewed as a greater risk for accidents. In general, however, gender has little bearing on auto premium costs. Your driving experience, driving record and credit rating, however, could affect the cost of your auto coverage.  

Myth: If a friend or relative borrows your car and causes an accident, he or she is responsible for damages.

Fact: Car insurance follows the car, not the driver. If you give people permission to drive your car and they cause an accident, your auto insurer is responsible for covering the cost of damages.

Myth: Rental car expenses are automatically covered in auto policies in Chandler, AZ.

Fact: If you want your insurer to pay for a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired after an accident, you have to add it to your coverage. It isn’t automatically included in your policy.   

For quality auto coverage at affordable costs, contact San Marcos Insurance Group today.