Health Insurance Shopping Web Sites

The best sites to help you compare health care plans and prices

By Tom Nutile, Principal TN Communications Group

With a seemingly endless array of health care options, trying to zero in on the right plan for your business can be achingly time-consuming. However, several health insurance shopping Web sites have emerged to help you narrow down your options. With a few clicks of the mouse, you can get a list of health insurance plans from a variety of major carriers that are geared to small businesses — usually with two to 50 employees. With these sites, you can:

Compare plans and rates.
Apply online.
Receive notification of approval in a matter of days.
Pay no fees.

eHealthInsurance.com

ehealthInurance.com lets you choose small business health insurance plans from major carriers and offers managed care plans (HMO, PPO and POS) as well as indemnity, or fee-for-service (FFS), plans in some areas. The site promises to serve as an advocate with the insurance company and to shop for competitive quotes when it's time to renew your policy.
Try: Visit eHealthInsurance.com.

HealthInsurance.com

HealthInsurance.com offers all types of small business group health insurance plans, including managed care, indemnity plans and health savings accounts (HSAs). It offers explanations of rating tools used to help you decide which carriers are best. A number of cost-containment strategies are especially useful for small business owners.
Try: Go to HealthInsurance.com.

MedHealthInsurance.com

This health insurance shopping site focuses on small businesses and offers managed care plans and HSAs from major carriers. The site offers cost-saving tips, such as information on joining with other small businesses to form a pool to purchase group health insurance.
Try: Go to MedHealthInsurance.com.

Major carrier sites

Health care providers also have Web sites that allow you to review and compare plans. Of course, you can only compare among each provider's own plans.
Try: Visit Blue Cross, Aetna and Cigna for a look at their small business plans.

To simplify the health insurance process, choose a site that offers follow-up service or will act as an advocate on your behalf.
Re-examine your health care policy and review rates when it's time to renew.
Most health insurance shopping sites don't charge a fee; instead they're paid a commission by the health insurance provider.

Find Pre-Screened Vendors

Compare quotes and save:

In which state(s) do you have employees residing?

How many employees are eligible for insurance?

Describe any additional information or requirements:

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