Discount healthcare plan is generally not the same as a health insurance plan. As the term suggests, discount healthcare plans usually give members savings in costs of services from member-providers as well as purchase of medicines from member-pharmacies. Instead of a policyholder, discount healthcare plans generally offer membership. The fees are usually deducted from a bank account or debited from a credit card. The member is usually provided with a discount card to be presented during purchases or payment for services. There are websites that offer information and membership about discount healthcare plans. Discount healthcare plans are commonly purchased by those who rarely need medical care or those who want to cut down on their health insurance's monthly premium. A discount healthcare plan may also be helpful to those who do not have any health insurance. Aside from medical services, discount healthcare plans are sometimes applicable with dental services. The word discount seems very enticing but be cautious when deciding on getting a discount healthcare plan. Some discount healthcare plans may offer 20-percent discount on selected medications and services. But there are pharmacies that may offer a lower or almost the same discount rate. You may consider first your and your family's needs before getting a discount healthcare plan. Based on your medical history, you may have a good idea of future requirements and needs where a discount healthcare plan will be useful. Answer by Ameriplan Agent - June 3, 2009 @ 5:19 pm