Obtaining Health Coverage
When you are looking for private health insurance, you can purchase from an agent that represents a specific health insurance company, or an independent agent that can evaluate from many companies what might best fit. You can look at professional or trade associations and other organizations, such as alumni or charitable groups you belong to, that offer health insurance to its members. As an example, if you are over 50, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) offers health coverage. You can go online to specific insurance companies or you can use online services that provide free quotes of leading insurers in your area.
When selecting an agent, choose one that is licensed to sell insurance in Florida. Use the telephone numbers and links below to verify whether an agent or insurance company is licensed.
For independent agents and brokers:
- Call the Consumer Helpline at (800) 343-2762
- Online at www.myfloridacfo.com/data/aar_alis1/
For insurance companies:
To find agents and brokers in Sarasota County, the National Association of Health Underwriters maintains a list of licensed health insurance agents, brokers, consultants, and benefit professionals.
The Foundation for Health Coverage Education maintains a 24-hour, seven days per week Help Line phone service at (800) 234-1317 that offers callers assistance in determining what public or private options may be best, connects callers with agents and brokers within their network database, and locates other resources for callers with unique health insurance needs.
You can also go online and take the Health Coverage Eligibility Quiz to help determine which programs you and your family may be eligible for and, in some cases, you can apply online for public programs.