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Discount Health Plans -- The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

Discount Health Plan
$39/month. No wait. Save up to 50%.
Pre-existing problems accepted.
www.discount-health.com


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While most discount health plans are legitimate, there are some that just don't deliver on the promise.

This article explains the good the bad and the ugly of discount plans. And I threw in a few tips on what to look for when choosing a plan for yourself and your family.

Simply stated, a discount health plan offers a discount on medical services from doctors and hospitals.

And it works like this. You agree to pay a monthly "membership fee" in return for a list of providers (doctors, dentists,etc.) who provide their services to you at a discounted rate.

Depending on the medical procedure and the health care plan you choose, you could expect to save from 40% to 70% off the provider's normal fee.

Here's what you should demand from a discount health plan...

  • It's affordable.
    If you can afford the price of a cup of coffee a day, you can afford a discount plan. In other words, you shouldn't pay more than $39 a month for a discount plan that includes the whole family.

  • No Health Questions.
    Unlike health insurance plans, all pre-existing (ongoing) health problems are accepted with no physical exams and no health questions asked. And there's no age limit.

  • No Waiting Period.
    You don't have to wait days or weeks before you're able to use the plan. You can start using it the same day you sign up.

  • Extras Included.
    The best plan will include dental, vision and chiropractic--at no extra cost.

  • Includes Entire Household
    Your entire household is included in discount health care plans at no extra cost. That means everyone who dwells under your roof--kinfolks or not.

  • The BAD AND THE UGLY.
    Actually, there's nothing inherently "bad or ugly" about discount health plans, unless, of course, it fails to deliver on its promises.

Of course there are "drawbacks" to discount plans. Here are a few...

You Have to Pay the Piper.
Always remember that discount plans are not insurance. That means you are responsible for paying for all procedures and services performed, but at a substantial discount. In many cases, your provider (doctor, dentist) will work with you on a monthly payment plan. But of course, you'll have to work that out before services are performed.

Provider List Is Too Short
Some health plans have a short provider list. Before you sign up for any discount plan, check their list and make sure there is a sufficient number of providers in your local area. You'll lose all your savings if you have to drive across the country to find the nearest doctor. This one is a drawback only if you choose the wrong company.


A Promise List That Doesn't Deliver
Some listed providers turn out not to be providers at all. Again, check the list before you sign up with any company and make sure the providers listed in your immediate area are actually participating in the discount program.

And there are several other points you should consider before signing up for discount health plans. Check out our Q&A page for more information.

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing?
Since there are no federal or state regulatory agencies that oversee discount plan companies, it's up to you to make sure you're dealing with a reputable company. There are scammers out there (for lack of a better word) waiting to get their hands on your hard-earned money.

I have researched more than 30 plans, and found one company that offers a plan that satisfies my perception of what a "good" discount health plan should include.

This plan includes health, dental, vision, pharmacy and chiropractic for about $39 a month per household. It's a very reputable company with a great track record (I checked out their rating with the Better Business Bureau). They've been in business about 15 years.

For more information about this plan click here.

Mike Griffith

Click here for a copy of my FREE 25-page ebook " 6 Questions You Should Ask Before You Buy a Discount Dental Plan"


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