About 18 percent of people in Alaska do not have health insurance; That is more than 107,000 Alaskans.The largest number of uninsured are those aged 30-49, but the rate of uninsurance is highest for young adults, aged 19-29. Smaller employers are less likely to offer health insurance to their employees, because premiums are prohibitively expensive. In 2000, about 26 percent of Alaska workers worked for small employers (defined as firms with fewer than 20 employees). No matter what your circumstance there are options for affordable health coverage in Alaska. Here is additional information on finding the best plan for you.
Alaska Individual Health Insurance
With the fact that many of today’s businesses no longer offer health insurance to employees, individuals in Alaska are suddenly finding themselves let go from jobs that had health insurance. Individual health insurance is an option you will want to consider.Your ability to buy individual health coverage may depend on your health status. There are certain circumstances, however, when you must be allowed to buy individual health coverage. In general, companies that sell individual health insurance in Alaska are free to turn you down because of your health status and other factors. When applying for individual coverage, you may be asked questions about health conditions you have now or had in the past.
Alaska Group Health Insurance
Alaska group health insurance is sold to businesses and organizations who then provide coverage to their employees and members. These group and business health insurance plans are inexpensive compared to individual or family coverage because the cost of medical services can be spread among a larger group of people. Since the risk associated with small group health insurance is lower for the insurance company, they are also more willing to underwrite policies for those with pre-existing conditions. In fact, all small group health insurance plans are required to be guaranteed issue according to federal law.
Alaska Family Health Insurance
Affordable family health insurance usually costs less than having a separate health insurance policy for each person. Also, a family health insurance plan usually has a higher coverage cap or lower combined deductible than an individual one. It is very important that you balance the cost of coverage with the medical care your family needs. You may want to take less risk with your family health insurance than you would with your own. A comprehensive family health insurance plan that covers prescriptions and regular doctor visits may end up being more affordable in the long run, especially if you have a large family.
Alaska Short Term Health Insurance
Cheap short term health insurance in Alaska is similar to standard health insurance, except that temporary health insurance can last anywhere from thirty days to one year. A short term health insurance plan may be for you if there is a short gap in your insurance. For example, if you lost your job and have begun searching for new employment with health insurance benefits, affordable temporary health insurance can help bridge the gap. Short term health insurance coverage is also suitable for people who are recent college graduates or on strike.
Alaska Student Health Insurance
Alaska has a university system with three main campuses and 15 smaller campuses, plus several private colleges. It is important that students have health coverage. Many colleges and universities require proof of health insurance for students; even if yours does not, cheap student health insurance will probably end up paying for itself. While you may be young and healthy now, sudden illness and accidents can happen. In that case, you will be very happy if you have college student health insurance. Don’t end up graduating with medical debt in addition to student loans!
