What Plan Benefits Are Offered?

Most plans provide basic medical coverage, but the details are what counts. The best plan for someone else may not be the best plan for you. For each plan you are considering, find out how it handles:

• Physical exams and health screenings.
• Care by specialists.
• Hospitalization and emergency care.
• Prescription drugs.
• Vision care.
• Dental services.

Also ask about:

• Care and counseling for mental health.
• Services for drug and alcohol abuse.
• Obstetrical-gynecological care and family planning services.
• Ongoing care for chronic (long-term) diseases, conditions, or disabilities.
• Physical therapy and other rehabilitative care.
• Home health, nursing home, and hospice care.
• Chiropractic or alternative health care, such as acupuncture.
  Experimental treatments.
• Some plans offer members health education and preventive care, but services differ.

Ask questions such as:

• What preventive care is offered, such as shots for children?
• What health screenings are given, such as breast exams and Pap smears for women?
• Does the plan help people who want to quit smoking?