Purchasing the best health insurance for yourself or your family is an important process. There are many items to consider, including which type of health insurance best meets your needs.

Two of the most common forms of medical coverage are indemnity and managed care health plans. Indemnity, or fee-for-service, allows the most flexibility. A policy holder can choose whichever doctor or hospital he prefers. Once the deductible is met, the insurance policy covers the rest or a portion of the cost. Indemnity plans are used most by people or families that do not make frequent trips to the doctor.

Managed care plans trade flexibility for price. Policy holders are limited to the physicians and hospitals within a managed care plan’s network, who charge a pre-negotiated rate. Many preventative services may be free or cost a few dollars. Managed care health plans are often used by families that make frequent visits to the doctor.

Many health insurance shoppers opt for a combination of indemnity plan services and managed care. Choose the deductible, services, and co-payment plans which best meet your needs and budget for an affordable health plan.