Cost-Effective PPO Health Insurance Plans

The following are a few great health insurance plans in the market that have very comprehensive coverage and can help you save money.

Cost-Effective California PPO Plans for 2008

First Dollar Plans: These plans have a $0 deductible so the member is paying only a percentage (usually 40%) of the negotiated rate for services from the very start of the policy. First Dollar Plans normally carry a doctor's visit co-pay from $25 - $40. Such plans do not include maternity benefits*, which helps to keep the monthly premiums down. *This may be a concern for women, but companies that carry these plans will often let you slide into their high deductible plan (~$5000 deductible) that includes maternity benefits should the member become pregnant.

These plans include different drug options to choose from...No Rx, Generic Only Rx, or Comprehensive Rx (Brand Name).

Some Popular First Dollar Plans in the Market include:

• Blue Cross Right Plan PPO 40

• Blue Shield Active Start 25 & 35

• Aetna MC Open Access 25

• Kaiser Permenente $25 & $50 Copayment Plan

• Health Net Simple Value 30 & 40


Blue Cross Smart Sense Plans: These are really flexible plans that offer 4 different deductibles ($500, $1500, $2500, & $5000), low monthly premiums, and a very low Annual Maximum Out-Of-Pocket of $2500. No Maternity Benefits and a choice of Generic Only Rx or Comprehensive Rx.


Medical/Dental/Vision Plans: These plans carry low deductibles that are often equal to their maximum out-of-pocket limits. They also include basic dental benefits and vision exams. These plans do not include maternity benefits and only include a Generic Drug option. Such plans are marketed toward the 19-29 age group, but these plans may be appropriate at any age.

Some Popular Medical/Dental/Vision Plans in the Market include:

• Blue Cross TONIK (has 3 different deductible options) *TONIK has strict underwriting guidelines. It is advisable to consult your health insurance agent before applying.

• Blue Shield Essential Plans

Click here for your free California Health Insurance quote!