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THE APPLICATION
STATEMENT - what should I expect concerning the application?
ANSWER - once you decide to purchase a health plan you'll need some basic information. Have this stuff ready prior to talking with the agent so you'll be ready when he comes for the visit.
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Every person over age 18 will need to be present for signatures with most companies.
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You'll need the name, address and phone number of the doctors for each member of your family who'll be on the policy and the approximate dates each person last saw their doctor.
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You'll need a list of prescription medications, including dosages and frequency, for everyone. If you are taking generics you need the generic name.
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You'll need a list of any major hospitalizations, including dates and doctor's names, that anyone has had the last 10 years.
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You'll need your check book.
STATEMENT - what about the medical questions, what will I need to know?
ANSWER - every application will ask the same basic questions in the same basic way. If you know how to answer those question you'll save time and irritation later.
Q: Is anyone in the family pregnant?
A: If you answer "yes" stop right there. It doesn't matter if the application is for your 8 year old son only. No insurance company will write a policy if anyone in the family is pregnant or they'll possibly be liable for the baby.
Q: Does anyone take prescription medications?
A: "PRESCRIPTION" is the keyword here. If you take over the counter allergy medication occasionally for seasonal allergies don't put it down unless they also ask about over the counter medication. If someone does take prescription medicine you'll need to list the type and dosage.
Q: Has anyone received a DUI or been in rehab?
A: The insurance company is looking for a pattern of substance abuse.
Q: When was the last time everyone went to the doctor? Why?
A: Depending upon your age and how you answer other questions, you may be asked to take a physical if it's been awhile since your last doctor visit, especially if you are trying for preferred rates.
Q: Does anyone smoke?
A: Smoking will generally cost you more. If you quit for a year the smoking surcharge can possibly be lifted, although you'll have to take a blood test to verify.
Q: In the last 10 years, has anyone been hospitalized?
A: Hospitalization only means inpatient, outpatient treatment is not hospitalized, neither are doctor's offices. However, Urgent Care Centers usually are. Also note, "In the last 10 years". This means if you went to the hospital 11 years ago you do not need to state so.
Q: What is your occupation?
A: Insurance companies are looking for high risk occupations, such as rodeo bull rider. However, you might be surprised by what some companies consider high risk.
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