THSCC Forums

OK,

so I've been living on the edge, without health insurance for about 2 years now- since being laid off from my previous job after 15+ years. I've been paying ~$350/mo for BCBS insurance for my wife + 3 year old son, but the additional cost for myself was just too much.

We spoke to an agent today about some insurance through "Alliance for Affordable Services", backed by Mid-West Life insurance of Tennessee (we live in NC). It all sounded great, almost too good to be true- they can cover all 3 of us for less than BCBS coverage for just my wife + son- for a bit less coverage. We completed the application, and got the paperwork. It all sounded good, but I wanted to read over the info to make sure we were not making a bad choice. One thing that is now catching my eye is this- "Surgeon benefit= 80% up to the maximum benefit option $3000"..... Now, it seems to me that you'd be hard-pressed to get a surgeon to do much more than remove a splinter for $3000. The more I read over this form, the more questions are popping up.

Anyone on the board familiar with this company or this type of insurance??
They claim to be "affiliated" with a group called "Alliance for Affordable Services", which is supposed to be a non-profit group that allows them to get group rates for insurance, as well as all sorts of other products and services, from office supplies to hotel rooms to rental cars.
I am planning to call the NC Dept of Insurance on monday to see if they are legit, or if they have many complaints against them- but I'd like to get as much info as I can. I did a Google search, but only come up with some class action suits, and some organizational problems that they have had in the past- certainly not an overwhelming negative response, but it brings up some more questions.

Any info or input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Bret.

I applied for insurance through "Alliance for Affordable Services". The sales lady Tristy Bittikofer quoted me a very good price over the phone. So I made an appointment for her to come and fill out an application. The rates went up about 50% for much more coverage than we discussed over the phone. She fudged my weight on the application. Mid West turned me down because I have high blood pressure (controlled) and the fact that I am the perfect weight for someone 6' 7" tall. I managed to get most of my money back since they turned me down.

_________________
George Bright Member # 141
One of the youngest of the old farts.
Yes I voted against you joining the club.

Hey Bret -

I'm not sure if Cline Hall does health insurance ... but I'd definitely give him a call on Monday. I'm sure he'd be glad to help you out. Cline autocrosses a Mini in our club and is a great guy. I just signed on with him for auto + home insurance.

_________________
Mike Whitney
whit32@gmail.com, 919-454-5445
V10, V8, V8t, I6, I6, V6, F4t, I4, I4, I4, I4, I2, 1, 1

Here is another vote for Cline, I also have my auto and home with him. He will shoot straight with ya!

_________________
02 Focus SVT
STF 9

Bret:
I have dealt with this issue for my Company for many years. There ain't no free lunch in the health insurance bi'ness.

All insurance companies use the same math to calculate rates vs. a given set of coverages. If the deal seems "too good to be true", IT IS, in the case of health insurance. Premiums are reduced by increasing deductibles and exclusions, and limiting or eliminating afflictions covered. Premiums also fund the customer service function. Your insurance is worthless, if you and your care provider can't communicate with your insurer.

There is also the issue of prescription coverage, which can get your attention should you need drugs. And how about dental coverage?

You might check to see if this "miracle-maker" insurance company is accepted at the local hospitals and out-patient facilities without you having to pony up the cash, then collect from them yourself. The last thing you want is for the admittance office at the hospital to say, "Alliance for WHO???"

I suggest you stay with a well-known company who have a track record and will still be in business next year. Pay the premium and keep some piece of mind. All of the major companies have a plan which will fit your budget, and you can upgrade the plan as your situation improves.

_________________
Brad

First, Mike and Ryan are apparently easily impressed!! I will echo that there is no good deal out there for health insurance. The first thing you need to do is check what doctors, therapists, radiology places, etc. are in their network. I got stuck with 4k in bills myself when my wifes doctor sent her across the street on a referral and they weren't in the network. I am not sure where you live but BCBS has a very large network in most areas. Also, I hear United is very good in the Raleigh area. Any company you do business with should be rated at AM Best (www.ambest.com I think) Don't go with anyone under an A rating.

_________________
2002 MCS, 2003 MCS Track Rat, 2003 Generic White Yukon, 2003 BMWk1200rs, 1973 CB350F, 02 996. 08 Cayenne Turbo
http://www.clinehallagency.com