Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which is the best plan for me?
Visit www.MediaBistroHealthPlans.com or call (866) 425-3341 to speak to one of Affinity's health insurance experts. These representatives can walk you through your options and help you decide which general type or specific plan is right for you and you can enroll right over the phone in about 15 minutes.
How much will this insurance cost me a month?
We'd love to be able to give you a concrete number but various plans offer diverse premium options to fit all financial needs, and vary based on a range of factors including age, gender, smoking status, type of plan (HSA, PPO Coverage, etc), effective date, and state of residence. Online rates are now available instantly just by entering in some simple information go to: www.MediaBistroHealthPlans.com
How do I know for what plans I'm eligible?
Generally, you are eligible for your choice of any of these plans, unless you live in the following states: Maine, Rhode Island, Hawaii, Vermont, and Washington State.
Why are residents of those states ineligible?
Certain states have what are known as "community rating" laws, which means that rates are determined by a "pool" of insured and not by your individual risk factors. This often prevents an insurer from being able to underwrite the risk, and thus they do not want to participate in those states.
What can I do if I live in a state whose residents are not eligible for this plan?
Residents of Maine, and Rhode Island can search our affiliate, ExtendOne, risk free.
What are the differences between the different plans?
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) co-pay plans are what people are usually thinking about when referring to "health insurance". They offer a certain amount of financial protection in exchange for payment of regular premiums. HSA (Health Savings Accounts) generally require higher maximum out-of-pocket expenses and lower premiums, and involve investing a portion of the money that would otherwise go toward premiums. There are many different options available within these two types of plans.
What is an HSA?
A Health Savings Account is an investment account dedicated to healthcare costs. You do not pay tax on money invested into the HSA, and several investment options are available to grow those funds. With a HSA, the insurance company offers you lower premiums and administrates the actual account. HSA plans usually offer a higher deductible and higher out-of-pocket maximum, which offsets their risk in exchange for those lower premiums, but all expenses below the annual deductible are paid out of the HSA, not out of your pocket. For a more in-depth description and comparison with a standard PPO plan, click here.
If I sign up for one plan, how hard is it to switch?
You can switch at anytime although it may be subject to new underwriting requirements. Most plan amendments are made at the anniversary of coverage.
Are prescription drugs covered?
Most plans offer a prescription option (example: $15 for generic prescriptions). Brand name drugs can also be covered, but they may be subject to a high co-pay or a deductible or coinsurance provision. There are many options that AHP can help with. In addition, AvantGuild members can apply for a free prescription drug discount card that entitles them to discounts on certain medications. Click here to learn more.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions are underwritten on a case-by-case basis. Some conditions may be excluded permanently, others for a specific time period. Your best bet for finding out whether your specific pre-existing condition is covered is to speak to a representative.
Are children, spouses, and domestic partners covered?
Plans are available offering both family and individual coverage. Domestic coverage is now available in ALL states.
Can I choose my doctor?
With more than 1,000,000 participating providers and 8,500 medical facilities nationwide, you have a huge array of doctors available from which to choose. Cost for non-network doctors varies on the options selected. In most instances it is subject to the plan's deductible and coinsurance provisions.
Do I need to get a referral from my doctor in order to see a specialist?
Referrals are not required to see specialists.
How to apply for your insurance
Visit www.MediaBistroHealthPlans.com or call (866) 425-3341.
Still have questions? Click here to contact us.
