How to Get on Your Spouse's Health Plan

The 1996 Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) entitles anyone who becomes a dependent through marriage to join the health plan of his or her spouse. Read on to find out if this is good news for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Make a list of services you'll need from a health plan. Your list should include routine physical exams as well as any specialists you may need to see or any specific health services - such as vision, mental health or family planning - you may require.
2. Request a coverage booklet from your spouse's plan. Read about the services offered and see if the plan covers everything on your list. Consider how your spouse's plan compares with your current insurance.
3. Look at the costs associated with the plan. Your monthly premium is the set amount you pay each month to belong to the plan. A co-payment is the fee you pay each time a service is provided. A deductible is a designated amount below which you pay all costs related to a specific service. Some plans also charge for choosing a physician outside the plan.
4. Contact your spouse's plan within 30 days to see if you qualify for the special enrollment period. Make the request in writing and include your name and the names of any other dependents who will be added to the plan.
5. Check with the Department of Labor at [phone] to get more information about laws that enforce your right to obtain information about the workings of health plans.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the Health Care Financing Administration and your state insurance commissioner's office for more information on health coverage.