One of the benefits of buying a new “Reform Compliant” plan in the open private marketplace, is most, if not all plans come with FREE preventative care and no deductible. Until the state government exchanges are up and running in 2014, all private market health insurance plans are mandated as of Sept 23rd, 2010 to offer these new preventative care upgrades. Plans purchased before that date, are “grandfathered plans”, and will not receive these new benefits on most plans.

The extensive list of services covered can be found on the www.healthcare.gov website and specifically at this link:

http://www.healthcare.gov/law/about/provisions/services/lists.html

Tip 1: Be sure the service is “coded” as preventative care, or you may be liable for the bills. Stay in network!

Tip 2: Don’t assume that your procedure will be covered free of charge. Call your insurance company claims department or agent before your appointment.

Tip 3: Things change, polyps found during a colonoscopy is no longer preventative care in some cases. Ask questions before going through an expensive $1000+ procedure.

Tip 4: Use an agent when applying for a plan to ensure you’re buying a “reform-ready” plan. Agents are state licensed, and knowledgeable about the changes taking place locally.

Tip 5: Nothing is free in this world; the premiums now reflect the mandated preventative care benefits.