When working with your health insurance company

Important points when working with your health insurance company:

• Shop carefully. Policies differ widely in coverage and cost. Contact at least one more health insurance company, or ask your agent to show you policies from several insurers so you can compare them.

• Make sure the policy protects you from large medical costs.

• Read and understand the policy. Make sure it provides the kind of coverage that's right for you. You don't want unpleasant surprises when you're sick or in the hospital.

• Check to see that the policy states: the date that the policy will begin paying (some have a waiting period before coverage begins), and what is covered or excluded from coverage.

• Make sure there is a "free look" clause. Your health insurance company should give you at least 10 days to look over your policy after you receive it. If you decide it is not for you, you can return it and have your premium refunded.

• Beware of single disease insurance policies. There are some polices that offer protection for only one disease, such as cancer. If you already have health insurance, your regular plan probably already provides all the coverage you need.