Posted by Health Wellness | Posted in workplace wellness | Posted on 09-07-2010
How does state health insurance compare to other insurance plans?
All fifty states provide medical insurance coverage to their state employees. However, eligibility, amount of coverage, and employees’ financial responsibilities varies state-to- state. an staff member medical plan offered by the state is often one of the best plans available.
Regrettably, many states are facing budget cuts and legislation trimming down staff member benefits due to the economic shortfalls across the U.S.. Although some states need to make cuts, their benefits are still exceptional.
States provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million workers, or 10 percent of the country’s workforce. 97 percent of full time state workers are eligible for the state staff member health plan. of those eligible, 91 percent use it. These high statistics show that states provide excellent coverage for their workers.
Even better, almost half of the states offer their coverage to non-state workers such as city or county workers, public school teachers, and/or higher education teachers.
These staff members receive the same or equivalent benefits as state staff members. This is a big incentive for teachers and other staff members looking for good medical insurance coverage.
States often carry some of the lowest premiums available. They often pay more than half of the premium amount, putting more money in their employee’s pocket. Fortunately, most states offer multiple medical insurance plans for their staff members to choose from.
You can shop around for the coverage that fits your needs rather than being “stuck” with only one plan to select from.
Regretfully, state staff member health plans aren’t immune from the economy’s troubles. Worker medical plan benefits are facing major cuts in some states because of budget shortfalls due to the housing crisis and rise in fuel prices.
While many states are making some cuts, their health benefits are still one of the best available. If you or your spouse thinks you may qualify for state benefits, check with your local state government for additional information on eligibility requirements, premium prices and included benefits.