When moving to the United States, many foreign immigrants are surprised to learn that their health insurance costs are not covered by the U.S. government. Some of these immigrants move to the U.S. with the help of USAFIS, an immigration service to help people with their visa applications to get moved to the United States.
Medical costs in the United States can be quite expensive. This is why people in the United States often have health insurance policies. In fact, more than half of the American population is enrolled in a healthcare plan such as an HMO (health maintenance organization), a PPO (preferred provider organization), or a POS (point of service plan). These plans are all different and work with hospitals, doctors, and other health providers. Contact USAFIS for information on moving to the United States to live and work.
Health Maintenance Organization
One basic requirement of an HMO is having one main physician who takes care of all of your health issues and works within the network of approved providers, unless there is an emergency situation. As a patient, you would always see your primary doctor first, and if he or she thinks that you need a specialist, you will be referred to one. USAFIS has been helping immigrants with their applications and the immigration process for over 15 years.
Preferred Provider Organization and Point of Service Plan
PPO and POS plans provide more options in regard to choosing your own doctors and other healthcare providers. PPOs will allow you to see providers that are out of network, and you do not need a referral from your primary doctor. If you go outside of your network, you may have to pay upfront for the medical costs, but you will receive a partial reimbursement.
With the POS plan, you will need a physician in your network to be your main healthcare provider. If you go out of network, you will be forced to pay for most of the cost, unless you had a referral from your primary care doctor. Contact USAFIS to learn if you are eligible to move to the United States to live, work, and study.
Understand Your Policy
Many employers in the U.S. offer health insurance to their employees, but sometimes it is not enough to cover healthcare costs. Every policy details what is covered within the contract, such as tests, treatments, and drugs that will be covered by the insurance. Research your policy, so you will know what is covered and make sure you get the best treatment that is covered by your plan. Contact USAFIS today for more information on moving to the U.S.!