Choosing the right health-care insurance for you

November 10, 1999
Web posted at: 5:08 p.m. EST (2208 GMT)

(CNN) -- Understanding the differences in the health-care coverage offered by your employer is just the first step in selecting coverage that is right for your medical and financial needs.

Your insurance must meet your medical needs, and the cost has to fit your budget.

With the growth of managed care, you may be wondering if you should be looking at an indemnity plan or an HMO. For many the choice of doctor is the deciding factor, but other issues should be considered.

Medical conditions and any special circumstances you might have, for example a pre-existing condition, should play an important role in insurance selection.

	VIDEO
CNNfn's John Metaxas reports on the choices available to consumers looking for healthcare coverage. Real 28K 80K Windows Media 28K 80K

And for everyone, there is the question of cost. What are the premiums? Are there any co-pays or deductibles? And what are the costs associated with prescription drugs?

Financial News Correspondent John Metaxas takes a closer look at major issues to consider when choosing health-care insurance.