January 13, 2008

Topic
Health Insurance
Also, a Discussion on the "Claims Appeal" Process

Guest
Erin Klug
Public Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Insurance
www.id.state.az.us

WHAT?
The mission of the Arizona Department of Insurance is to faithfully execute the state insurance laws in a manner that protects insurance consumers and encourages economic development.

WHERE?
Arizona Department of Insurance     AZ-DOI    www.id.state.az.us
2910 N. 44th St. Suite 210     Phoenix, Az. 85018-7269

QUESTIONS?
Consumer Assistance      For insurance questions/problems...
Phoenix Area:   (602) 364-2499                     Tucson Area:     (520) 628-6370                          Statewide: (800) 325-2548

The Insurance Term of the Week
Short Term Medical provides lower cost comprehensive temporary medical insurance coverage
for a period of generally 30 to 365 days.

Policies cover physician services, prescription drugs, x-ray and laboratory services, inpatient hospital stays,
 inpatient and outpatient surgeries, nursing facility care and rehabilitation with a lifetime benefit of usually 2 to 3 million dollars.

Larry's Tip of the Week:
Life can throw us many curve balls and there are situations that come up in life that fit the need for "Short Term Medical" Insurance.
You could be between jobs, at a new job that requires a waiting period before you are eligible for group major medical benefits, or even a recent college graduate seeking full time employment and just coming off your parents health insurance plan.

Short Term Medical insurance is not an alternative to permanent major medical coverage, however, it is ideal for short term
situations designed for families and individuals who do not need coverage for pre existing conditions because pre existing
conditions are not covered in the policy.

Premiums are substantially lower than traditional major medical coverage and COBRA options available from previous employer group insurance plans. Short Term Medical Insurance is designed for people in transition and provides a good safety net
in case of illness or injury that might occur during the coverage period.

As the name implies, Short Term Medical Insurance is temporary and most companies only offer coverage for up to 12 months.
If you are going to need coverage for a longer period of time you should be considering a traditional major medical policy.
Always consult with your insurance adviser regarding your particular situation.