Once you’ve done all the research, done a comparison of prices and benefits and know which health insurance policy you want to apply for, all you have to do is apply. Sounds simple, right? Well, it can be, particularly if you make sure you’re prepared. You also need to decide whether you feel comfortable applying for a policy online, and also whether you can apply via a group plan. It will be easier to complete the necessary forms if you have all the relevant information available, which includes details of your most recent insurance policy, contact details for your doctor, and the dates you most recently visited the doctor.

Applying for Health Insurance through Your Employer

Many companies have what they call an open enrollment period, so if you’re enrolling in a plan provided by your employer, you may have to wait for that period before you can begin the application process. Usually, though, if you’re a new employee, there’s no need for you to wait. The good thing about enrolling in a group plan is that the application is usually very simple. This is because this type of plan will accept just about anyone, regardless of their current state of health or any pre-existing conditions.

Even so, you’ll have to fill out an enrolment form, which includes information such as your address, social security number, the name of the primary insured person and all dependants (and you’ll probably have to include their details too), all relevant employment information, and the type of health insurance coverage you’re applying for. It’s unlikely that you’ll need to undergo a medical examination, but you will need details of prior health insurance coverage, including the insurance company name and policy number. Once you’ve completed the paperwork, it goes back to the benefits coordinator, and that’s basically all you need to do.

Applying for Health Insurance Directly

Apply directly to the health insurance company for coverage isn’t very different to the group process. You will still need to provide all the same information. The main difference is that you’ll have to process the paperwork yourself, and make sure it’s all correct, before applying. Sometimes the insurance company will organize for an insurance agent to get in touch and discuss the application process with you, to make sure you do it correctly. The agent will also assist you with getting together all the relevant documents, organize an in-home medical examination if it’s required, and handle payments. So you won’t be totally on your own. Even if you don’t have an agent allocated to you, the insurance company will have a number you can call if you have any questions about the application.

If you are planning to apply directly for health insurance, then you may find it easier to apply online. Just go to the insurance company’s website, locate the online application form, and once you’re comfortable the information will be processed securely, go ahead and apply. You will still need to provide all the same information, so make sure you have it handy. You may also need to provide hard copies of some documents down the track, but the insurance company will let you know if that’s required. Once you’re done, click on the submit button and everything else is done for you by the insurance company. It’s really very simple - the hardest part is choosing which level of coverage you require.

Remember, too, that if you’re not comfortable with providing so much personal information over the Internet, insurance companies still have more traditional application methods available. Just ring them and ask.

Tim Gorman