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As of 2009, Florida was home to more than 17 million people, but more than one in five of them were uninsured, as reported by The Kaisier Family Foundation. To close the gap and extend coverage to more Florida residents, the state participates in several affordable state and federally-funded health care options for low-income and medically needy individuals.
Florida has a vibrant and competitive health insurance market with a large number of providers competing for your business. Unfortunately, Florida has also attracted a few unscrupulous actors who have put together insurance scams as well. To protect yourself and your family, purchase health insurance only from experienced agents with current insurance licenses in good standing with the Department of Insurance Regulation.
Florida has a growing population of almost 19 million residents, according to the 2010 census. Almost four million Florida residents receive insurance from employer-offered commercial health insurance plans. The largest providers in Florida include United Healthcare Insurance Company, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Florida and Aetna Health Inc. Citrus Health, Inc., the state's smallest HMO, insures just 238 people. Eight Healthy Kids HMOs insure more than 200,000 children in Florida.
According to a U.S. Census Bureau report released in July, 2010, Florida had the third highest rate of uninsured residents in 2007 at 24.2 percent. Meanwhile, health-care costs and jobless rates continued to increase. If you don't have health insurance, there are options: Check retail pharmacy chains for drug discount programs, as well as pharmacies in grocery and department stores. Some also offer periodic clinics. Local health departments provide an array of services. Consider as sources of assistance state and national associations oriented toward specific medical conditions.
Health coverage is a high cost that some families are forced to stop paying due to economic circumstances. The state of Florida strives to ensure all children are covered by providing low-cost health coverage for qualifying families. This program is better known as Florida KidCare.
An employee who is laid off or has a reduction in work hours can be left with no medical insurance coverage. The Florida Health Insurance Coverage Continuation Act (FHICCA) offers continuation coverage to employees who work for a company with less than 20 employees. An employee should understand the purpose, eligibility requirements, cost, and the time period for coverage.
The best way to find the right health insurance company is by talking to a broker who represents a variety of companies. Look for the best health insurance based on what's affordable and what benefits are needed with tips from an insurance broker in this free video on health care and financial planning.
