Why should I choose an Independent Insurance Agency like Harbour Health Insurance Solutions?

Some people think it doesn't really matter where they buy their insurance. But this misconception could be costing them money, service and protection. Buying insurance isn't like buying bread or milk. Insurance is an important safety net for your family, your home, your car or your business.

Don't treat the purchase lightly! 

There is a difference in where you buy your protection.  

Many people don't realize there are 3 sources for insurance:

1) Independent Insurance Agents, who represent an average of eight insurance companies, and research with these firms to find you the best combination of price, coverage and service.

2) Telephone Representatives, who can offer you the insurance of one company, and only on the telephone.

3) Captive Agents, who can sell you the insurance of only one company.

Your Independent Insurance Agent:

• Is a licensed professional with strong customer and community ties.
• Gives you excellent service and competitive prices because your agent can access the insurance coverage from more than one company.
• Unlike other agents, is not beholden to any one company; thus, you don't need to change agencies as your insurance and service needs change.
• Assists you when you have a claim. Is your consultant, working with you as you determine your needs.
• Offers you a choice of insurance plans and programs.
• Is a value hunter who looks after your pocketbook in finding the best combination of price, coverage and service.
• Offers one-stop shopping for a full range of products-home, renters, auto, business, life and health.
• Can periodically review your coverage to keep up with your changing insurance needs.
• Treats you like a person, not just another number.
• Customer satisfaction is the key to an independent agent's livelihood. So, serving you is your independent agent's most-important concern.

There Is A Difference!                                            Online Article Here

Is there an extra fee to use an insurance agent or broker?

No, health insurance agents and brokers are paid a commission by the health insurance company. Your insurance rates will always be the same whether you use an agent or buy directly from an insurance company. For no additional charge, an insurance agent can provide advice and assistance during the insurance application process and help you with service or claims after the point of sale.

What is pre-authorization?

Pre-authorization is getting prior approval from your insurer before a procedure is performed to ensure that the procedure will be covered.

If I get pre-authorization, does that mean the procedure will be covered?

It should; however, pre-authorization does not guarantee that the service will be covered. It merely states that the insurer intends to cover the service, but on final review of the claim, your insurer may determine the service to have been unnecessary.

Will my claim be denied if I do not get pre-authorization?

Not necessarily. If the service is covered and necessary, your provider may authorize and cover the service. Depending on your policy, failure to get pre-authorization for some services may cause it to not be covered.

Does my insurer have to tell me whether they will or will not pre-authorize a procedure?

Laws vary state to state, but many insurers are not required to provide pre-authorization for services, but do so as a courtesy.

What services require pre-authorization?

Many non-emergency medical procedures and services require pre-authorization. If you are unsure, ask your provider. They are generally very familiar with which services typically require pre-authorization.

What do I need to do in order to get pre-authorization?

Your in-network provider may request pre-authorization on your behalf, so you need do nothing other than visit the provider and ask them if pre-authorization may be required. Your provider may have to present evidence of the necessity of the procedure by supplying your insurer with a report, lab and/or test results, scans, x-rays, photographs or other supporting materials that indicate that the procedure is necessary.

Will my healthcare provider always initiate the pre-authorization process on my behalf?

Although your provider can initiate the pre-authorization process on your behalf, they may not always do so and that may leave you with the bulk of the expense. It is the insured patient's responsibility to know when pre-authorization is necessary. If you have any questions regarding whether pre-authorization is needed, contact your insurance company.

Wellness Tip of the Month 

Buddy Up!

We've all made our New Year's resolutions and now it's time to follow through! If improving your health was on your list, we have an idea that will help lead to success this year.  

We know that some days it almost seems impossible to make yourself head to the gym to workout. Well, did you know that research shows you are more likely to stick to a fitness program if you have someone motivating you and relying on you? Makes sense right? Not only do partner workouts provide a great social experience, but they're also a heck of a lot healthier than simply heading over to happy hour.

When you workout with a partner there always seems to be a little healthy competition. The kind where your partner's cheering you on when you have one last repetition to go or the moment where you want to stop but they won't let you. It's accountability at the toughest of moments.

Check out the video below featuring Wellness Coaches Jeff Ford and Amy Kelderhouse and try these five challenging partner exercises with your exercise buddy!

Buddy Up! Partner Fitness Exercises

Alicea Glover is responsible for H3 Direct, a corporate wellness program, facilitated by Hilton Head Health (H3), designed to take the inspiration of H3's Healthy Lifestyle™ program, delivered to your door.  It's not too late to begin a program for your company in 2012 - call 785-3919 for information about how you can invest in your employees' health in the New Year for less than a quarter a day!

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