Should you buy your health insurance from a broker? Or should you buy directly from an Indiana insurance company? And is your rate higher by using a broker or do you receive a discounted premium? These are legitimate concerns by Indiana consumers and we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each choice.

Firstly, the rate you pay for your medical coverage is exactly the same regardless of how or where you purchase that specific policy. For example, if you purchase an Anthem HSA directly from the insurer, let’s say your monthly rate is $210. When you buy that exact policy utilizing our website, your rate will be identical. And that is designed to benefit consumers who know they won’t be charged any extra fees either from a carrier or an agent.

So why do so many people choose to work with us? In my opinion, based on my three decades of experience in the health care business, I believe the key phrase is “unbiased.” Here’s what I mean. When you work with an experienced broker, he/she is not working for another company.

They are working for you. So instead of receiving advice and 10 reasons why you should buy a policy from “Company A,” you’re receiving expert research and guidance about “Company A. B, C, D and E.” Thus, our loyalty is to you, so you can be confident you're always paying as little as possible. And you're learning about different plan options.

Because, whether it’s Anthem, or UnitedHealthcare or any other carrier, we will not show bias or favoritism towards any one carrier. Our “favoritism” will be towards you…our client, who we are obligated to offer the best policies at the absolute lowest possible cost. And personally, I have more than 30 years of experience as an insurance broker. When you call an insurer directly for a quote, I doubt you will ever speak to anyone with that type of resume.

What about fees that you pay? Actually, you never pay a charge to work with our website. Ironically, we are paid directly by the insurers since they realize that most persons purchasing coverage prefer to work with independent websites and brokers. So you receive the lowest possible rate, you pay no extra costs and typically you work with someone who has many years of experience and will drastically simplify a complex decision.

After you buy your policy, you may need some assistance. It may only be once a year or it possibly may be more. Usually, consumers prefer to communicate and work with the same person, as opposed to a customer-service office that may have high employee turnover. It’s not unusual for us to spend more time servicing than selling. And that’s good news for customers.

And just as importantly, at some point, your existing Indiana medical coverage may need updating or perhaps even changed to a different carrier. In that situation, it’s imperative that you’re considering all of the companies in the state…not just one. Prices change every week and we stay on top of product and rate fluctuations.

In fairness, we don’t question the integrity or honesty of any employee that works directly for Anthem, Humana, UnitedHealthOne or any of the top companies. Our point is that when you “go direct,” you aren’t really shopping or comparing all of the best plan options. You’re only seeing a fraction of the available policies, when you could be seeing them all.

With us, when you buy a policy, you’re going to get the lowest possible rate, great service for all of your needs, and annual updates that review your current plan. Shopping online isn't the same as meeting in person. So we give you a choice of how you wish to receive your information.

Free Indiana health insurance information can always be found on our website. We help consumers by providing answers to your medical insurance questions, giving you free quotes from all of the most reputable companies and providing expert advice regarding applying for a policy and the upcoming Health Exchange.

Below are some of the most popular topics we are asked about:

How Do I Buy A Policy Through The Indiana Health Insurance Exchange?

Although it does not start until 2014, you have come to the right website. We will assist individuals and families that reside in the Hoosier state buy their coverage from the Exchange. There will be four plan options (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum) and possible tax credits to lower the rate you pay.

We'll help you navigate and compare through the expected confusion of a government-run program so that you can view free quotes and easily apply.There is also a possibility that the Exchange will not be used (depending on future legislation).

What companies have the best rates in the state?

That depends on many factors. In certain sections of Indiana, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) is usually very competitive. Their comprehensive and HSA policies are very popular. However, if your need is very temporary, UnitedHealthone and Humana have specialty short-term products that will cost the least. Anthem offers temporary coverage but the cost is higher than other available plans. And Medical Mutual has a "Value" plan that is very cheap.

What do you charge for all of the services you provide?

That's an easy question to answer. Nothing. Zero. And that will never change. We are aware that many other websites and plans can charge fees as much as $100. We don't feel that's right or necessary. You can "take it to the bank" that our Agency will never ask for any type of compensation. And you can be confident that the prices you see on our website are the lowest possible rates offered by each of the carriers.

I'm coming off another plan. Can I keep my doctors?

If you're just changing from a group policy to an individual policy, and the company is not changing, then you should be able to use the same doctors, hospitals etc... If, however, the new insurer is different, you will have to verify that you existing physicians are "in network." Additionally, it's possible that in 2014 and beyond, if full implementation of "The Affordable Care Act" proceeds as planned, there could be doctors and perhaps specialists that choose to no longer practice. Or there could be an extreme shortage of providers. We'll find out!

Is it easy to cancel a policy?

Actually, you can keep your plan as long as you need it. At any time, you can cancel coverage. For example, you may only need benefits for a few months. In that situation, a short term policy would be the best option to keep rates low. If you want to buy long-term coverage, you will still be able to terminate the policy whenever you request it. Whether it's a week, a month or a year, you can cancel at any time. 

How do I apply for health insurance in Indiana?

The process is simple. The free quote section is at the top of the page. You begin there. There will be some medical questions that you will have to answer. Usually, you are not required to take a physical. And many times, you don't have to make a down payment.

Once the application is submitted, after a few days or a few weeks (it depends on the type of coverage), you receive an offer. You can reject the offer if it is unacceptable or you can accept it and you will be covered very quickly. And we'll help and guide you every step of the way.

I currently live in Indianapolis. If I move, will my rates change?

All carriers use either a county or zip code to determine your rate. So it is possible that your rate will change if you move. For example, Richmond's rates may be a bit less while premiums in the Gary area my go up.

There are many variables but after you fill out the quote form, you'll be able to see and compare the differences. And of course, we can help you understand any changes.

Indiana Medicare supplement rates are very affordable and can be easily compared on our website. We'll show you the lowest rates from the most reputable insurers in Indiana and help you find the Medigap plan that best fits the coverage you can afford. The quotes are free and there is never an obligation to purchase any type of plan. At the top of this web page, you can provide basic information, and shortly, you'll be able to compare your options.

Medicare pays for most of your health care costs. But there are many gaps in coverage that can become costly if you have to pay them. A Supplement policy will help pay those expenses so you're not forced to pay large unexpected bills. And there are many low-cost options that will be easy on your budget.

When you complete your retirement papers, you can apply online for Medicare. This is regardless if you are receiving your retirement compensation. Although you may have an employer retirement policy, it still will probably leave gaps that are not covered.

Dozens of companies offer supplemental coverage in Indiana. Some of the more recognizable insurers are Anthem, Gerber, AARP, Humana, UnitedHealthcare and Medico. We'll help you understand the differences in the rates each company offers. "Select" policies should also be considered since premiums can be lower. In exchange for paying lower rates, you will have to utilize specific hospitals.

The state approves 12 different policy options, so there are plenty of choices. You'll also need to understand how your premiums are calculated. There are three ways (issue age, attained age and no age) and while discussing your options, we can explain what each one means to you.

There are four major parts of Medicare Coverage and we'll briefly review them below:

Part A provides hospital inpatient care benefits and home health care (subject to limitations and your doctor's order). Also included is hospice and skilled nursing facility coverage. Usually, when you reach age 65, you become eligible for Part A. If you aren't eligible (the free and automatic option), you may be able to purchase benefits.

Part B provides benefits for outpatient expenses and services provided by a doctor. Limited preventive benefits are included along with physical and occupational health care coverage. You should enroll in Part B when you are eligible. The government typically pays most of the Part B premium (roughly 75%). It's important to enroll when you are eligible to avoid a late sign-up fee.

Part C consists of Medicare Advantage plans that are private coverage provided by health insurers that includes the standard benefits. Preventive physical exams and some RX benefits are also included. Often, the money you pay out of pocket for Advantage plans is less than standard options. HMO, PFFS and PPO are the three available options.

When you elect this type of coverage, Medicare pays a private insurer each month for your health care. However, there can be different out of pocket costs, depending on the policy and the insurer. So it also is a good idea to properly shop and compare costs and benefits. Offering companies also must be approved by Medicare.

Part D is your prescription coverage and it is 100% optional. That is, if you don't request this benefit, you will not receive it. You can enroll by completing a form that can be provided by a licensed broker. Rates will vary from one insurer to another, so getting help to shop for the best option is helpful.

Typically, you must meet a deductible for benefits begin. Once that has been met, a copay or coinsurance is paid on your prescriptions, which covers most of the cost. At some point, you may have to pay all of the costs, which are referred to as the "donut hole." It is possible, however, that your contract may avoid this. Once $4,700 has been paid, the small copays and coinsurance amounts will apply again. Low income subsidy is available through the "Extra Help" program.

Medigap Supplement plans in Indiana must have the same features and benefits since they are heavily regulated by state and federal governments. This helps protect consumers and makes it easier to shop and compare benefits. Typically, these plans do not cover vision or dental benefits along with long-term care. When you request a quote on our website, we'll help educate you on the different options and which plans are the most affordable.

Although there are many options (A through N), most carriers do not sell all of these plans. However, an insurer that is actively offering coverage, must include Plan A among those plans. If they include other options in their portfolio, then plans C or F must be one of those plans. Of course, they can also sell any or all of the additional policies.

What If I Am Considered Uninsurable?

If you buy a Medigap policy during an "Open Enrollment" period, you will not be asked any  questions pertaining to your health and you will not be charged a higher premium because of any existing or past medical problems. Also, you will be able to purchase any policy that is currently being offered by that insurer. There also may be "guarantee issue" situations where you are automatically approved.

This window of opportunity is a six-month period that starts from the first day of the calendar month that you are signed up for Part B and you are at least 65. However, a pre-existing condition may not be covered for the first six months of the newly-issued policy (waiting period) if it was treated or diagnosed in the prior six months. Yes, it can get confusing! We'll always be happy to help explain any of the specifics.

Comparing Indiana Medicare Supplement Plans is not easy and can be very confusing. We understand how difficult the process is. That's why we'll take the time to clearly explain your options and provide free quotes from the most reputable insurers so you can feel comfortable about the plan you select.