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White woman and man, both 35-45, with an Asian infant

When Susan and Larry adopted Min from China, they enrolled her in Larry’s HMO. They found a pediatrician in the network who had cared for children adopted from overseas.

Susan said, “We wanted her doctor to be familiar with some of the medical issues faced by kids from the developing world, like problems with vaccinations or the chance of lead exposure.”

It's great if you have a choice of plans—many people are only offered one choice by their employer.

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What plans does your employer offer?

What plans could you choose on your own?

What plans does your employer offer?

Take some time to read the materials your employer gives you. Do this when you start your job or when the open enrollment period begins each year. Also review these materials if you need to add a dependent to your plan. Talk to your benefits office if you have questions.

You may have a choice of new plans each year.

Research the plans your employer offers.

What plans could you choose on your own?

If you have group coverage now, you may be able to keep it with COBRA/Cal-COBRA , if you meet the deadlines for signing up with these programs. Also, ask your current plan if you can convert to individual coverage. Compare the costs of COBRA/Cal-COBRA .

If you have had COBRA/Cal-COBRA and want to buy a plan under HIPAA , you are guaranteed coverage. You will still want to compare plans. Ask your health plan about HIPAA.

You can find plans in your area at these websites:
Revolution Health Insurance
eHealth Insurance
Medical Plan Quotes

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