Health Care Cost Expected to Rise

The average employee's health care costs, including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, will increase 8.9% in 2009. That's well above the rate of inflation and average salary increases.

For that reason, it's more important than ever to scrutinize your employer's health care options during open enrollment season. Don't assume the plan you used last year is still the best choice, because the terms may have changed.

Unfortunately, some health insurance plans are quite complicated. Here are some ways to save money:

•Understand the difference between co-insurance and co-payments. Many employees are accustomed to making co-payments of $5 to $25 for everything from prescription drugs to doctor's visits. More employers are replacing co-payments with co-insurance in an effort to control costs

•Sign up for mail-order prescriptions. Most plans offer mail-order delivery of prescription drugs, and these programs can save you a lot of money. You'll receive a larger supply — typically 90 days — you'll save money on co-payments and may get discount.

•Contribute to a health care flexible spending account or health savings account. Most employers offer flex accounts, which let you use pretax dollars to pay out-of-pocket medical and dental costs. These accounts can help reduce the cost of co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles.

Hopefully these three tips will help you weather the storm of the next health insurance rate increase.

Hilary on Healthcare

The Clinton camp posted on their website that Hillary's plan will simplify and ensure choice in health insurance coverage for all Americans.

Hillary's health plan from differs in many ways from current health insurance plans. The new proposal provides tax credits for working families to help them cover their costs. Some of the innovative ideas in this plan will put an end to discrimination for pre-existing conditions.

insurance.com acquires 4insurance.com

Press Release

Online insurance agency Insurance.com has purchased personal lines insurance shopper 4insurance.com.

As a result of the acquisition, 4insurance.com will offer car insurance quotes from over a dozen auto insurance companies.

Launched in 1996 by iHomeowners, 4insurance.com offers consumers the ability to shop for auto, life, home and health insurance plans.

At 4insurance.com, consumers will answer one set of questions in order to get multiple insurance rate quotes from top companies, and can then select and purchase a policy online or over the phone with in-house licensed agents.