the Price of Health Insurance from an HMO

I pay a $52 dollars per week for my HMO, deducted directly from my paycheck. This is for myself only, with no dependents. Routine doctor visits have a $10 co-pay with a specialist co-pay of $25. Emergency Room service is $75 but that is waived if hospital stay is required. My prescriptions are $5.00 for gemerics and $10.00 for name-brand covered under the formulary chart. My primary care physician choices are actually pretty good because most doctors/clinics here participate in my HMO system. My premium also includes basic dental and eye insurance.

I feel I am getting my money's worth, even though it seems expensive. I'm in my 40's and have a few health issues that come with middle age. I take four prescriptions daily that I could never afford if I had to pay out-of-pocket. I get one pair of free eyeglasses every two years. I never get any unexpected bills for lab work.

On the down side, appointments for routine visits need to be scheduled at least a month in advance, usually six weeks. It has to be an urgent or emergency situation in order to be seen immediately.

Plan ahead for scheduling routine exams and lab tests. Write down any concerns you have and be sure to discuss them with your doctor while you're there. Have a list of your medications on hand, including vitamins, herbal supplements and over-the-counter products you use. This is especially important if you've had to see a specialist that prescribed treatment for you.