Health Care Help
By: Cecillea Pond-Mayo, KARK 4 News
Updated: May 8, 2008
When Lashunda Thompson was laid off from her job recently, one of her primary concerns was health care. To maintain her current coverage, would have cost her $500 a month. But now she says she pays $39.95 a month for health care. It’s not insurance, it’s what some call a buyers club.
Lashunda uses Ameriplan. Companies like Ameriplan will negotiate a rate with its providers. Its customers are given a list of participating doctors, dentist or pharmacist.
These plans are not designed to replace health insurance, but rather provide a service for those who are not offered a plan.
The latest numbers from the Department of Health show 20% of adults in Arkansas are uninsured.
Another option for families struggling with health insurance premiums are health savings accounts. HSA’s began in 2003. Individuals can put money into a special tax-deductible account. It can be used in conjunction with a high deductible insurance plan.
