Washington D.C. health insurance policies vary on coverage. Individual Washington D.C. health insurance carriers may require a health screening or physician selection within a specified network of pre-selected doctors. Often you have the choice between HMO and PPO with Washington D.C. health insurance. The PPO gives you more flexibility in choice of doctors from a network, while the HMO typically means less money out of pocket for initial visits.

If you choose a PPO, it’s vital to determine a deductible. If you go to the doctor often, select a lower deductible which means a high premium. But if you’re generally healthy, choose a higher deductible for lower premiums on your Washington D.C. health insurance policy. Washington D.C. health insurance providers also vary on their coverage for maternity leave, prescription drugs and mental health coverage. So be sure to check the specifics of the coverage. For the best coverage from a Washington D.C. health insurance carrier, consider:

1. Going directly to a big name insurer for Washington D.C. insurance.

2. Saving time by comparison shopping online for health insurance in Washington D.C.

3. Checking with local chambers of commerce, AARP if you're over 50, the Small Business Service Bureau and trade associations for help with Washington D.C. health insurance carriers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find Washington D.C. health insurance plans at the big insurers

To find a Washington D.C. health insurance carrier, go to the big names. They will offer the greatest variety of policies to meet your needs. You can compare plan policies and prices, and know these companies.

I recommend: Go to Aetna or CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield to read about their policies and to get quotes on policy rates for Washington D.C. health insurance plans.

Compare Washington D.C. health insurance plans

Go to one site for a comparison of Washington D.C. health insurance plans. The one-stop insurance sites often have online applications to save more time. Make sure you compare coverage, deductibles and premiums for plans that meet your needs. Weigh this against your drug costs.

I recommend: Go to the HealthInsuranceSort or eHealthInsurance for a quick comparison of the many Washington D.C. health insurance carriers. Just enter your information, and then compare prices for medical visits, premiums and drug benefits.

Connect with advocacy and industry groups for the best Washington D.C. health insurance plans

Get creative and connect with any industry or advocacy group that can help you find the perfect Washington D.C. health insurance providers with quality prescription drug benefits. Start with your local chamber of commerce or your industry trade organizations. The AARP can also be a great help in finding prescription drug coverage for people over 50.

I recommend: Check with the Small Business Service Bureau, the AARP if you're over 50 or trade associations that help find self-employment insurance. You can also call your local D.C Chamber of Commerce for resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you never go to the doctor, you'll want a high deductible with a lower premium. If you plan on having a baby, ensure the Washington D.C. health insurance policy you choose covers this medical expense.