Health Care Reform is the biggest issue of conversation across America, but what does that mean to me…the everyday citizen? What is right for me, right now, right here where I live? What about the small business owner offering a group plan to employees?

The first thing to do is get educated about the two different systems available to you in Oregon. Did you know you have options? Oregon has a “Provider Network” system” and a “Life and Health Insurance” system. Both will provide programs for financial assistance when health care services are needed. The key difference is one is actual “Insurance” and the other is a “Subscription” to a predetermined plan.

What is the difference between the two systems and what does that mean to me and my family?:

Mind you, this is a very convoluted subject that is ever changing. The best option today, in my opinion, is to make the choice for the system that best protects my family from the “Loop Holes” of what the media calls “The Broken Health-care System”. But wait…What are those Loop Holes and are they in the program I already have? Both good questions and ones that need answering if you already have a program, looking to change that program, or needing to purchase a program.

This is a list of a few of the Loop Holes you need to be aware of:

• Does your plan pay claims based on UCR charges (Usual Customary and Reasonable charges)?
• Do you have to get PreAdmission Authorization for hospital inpatient care?
• Do you have to get a Referral to see a Specialist?
• Does your Co-Insurance coverage amounts decrease if you need medical care when you travel out of Oregon or overseas?
• Do you have to commit to a 6 month or 1 year contract?

These are just a few of the many “Health Care Restrictions” and “Financial Exposures” most people are unaware are already in their health care program.