When you choose from the eisting HMO plans, you should consider not only the cost but also the type of coverage you will get. Yes, cost is an important factor, especially for someone like you who must have lost your job for some reason. Still, you must carefully study the benefits if you want to know if you are getting your money’s worth. Because cost is an important factor, you must carefully study and compare the rates for enrollment, co-payments, amount of deductibles and monthly premium of these HMO plans. One of the reasons why HMO insurance policies are inepensive is its use of a large network of health care providers. HMOs require members to see only physicians within that network which then assures them of a steady stream of patients. However, you must keep in mind that before you can see another specialist, you have to consult with your primary care physician first. Since your choice of physician is limited, you have to check their pre-set list of providers if there is one available in your area. If you have to go to another town or state just to use your HMO plan, then it is not that cost-effective. It might not be enough that you check only the availability of primary care physicians. Depending on your medical condition, you might also want to check if your HMO plan includes the services of specialists that you might need. Find out if there are cardiologists, neurologists or even physical therapists in the list You might want to see what the clause on eclusions and pre-eisting conditions says in your plan. It is important that you know what the plan covers and does not cover. When you choose among HMO plans being offered to you, evaluate the costs, check the providers, study what is covered and not covered and determine if the plan is really what you are looking for. - June 26, 2009@12;43 pm