Family Encyclopedia >> Health

How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for You and Your Children

As a busy parent juggling work and family, December brings extra demands—holidays plus open enrollment for health insurance. Your ideal policy varies by personal needs and changes yearly. Here's expert guidance on selecting the right health insurance for you and your family.

Table of contents

Which health insurance plan suits me best?

Your circumstances evolve annually, so reassess your policy. Key factors include family size, health needs, and budget. Our experience shows comparing options yields the best fit.

Insure your children

Children under 18 are covered free on a parent's policy—no extra premium or deductible. Add newborns within four months of birth to avoid out-of-pocket costs. They're typically on the mother's policy if it's the most comprehensive.

In our family, with one child turning 18 next October, we're reviewing policies again. Even partial-year changes can save money through comparison.

Which health insurance policy suits me best and should I take out additional insurance?

Basic insurance covers most child healthcare, but extras like orthodontics, ear corrections, ADHD meds, orthotics, or glasses often require supplementary coverage. Parents must add these for reimbursements—check dentist recommendations and policy details.

Balance premiums against expected costs; self-pay if cheaper. Still, annual reviews ensure optimal coverage.

Reimbursement of children's glasses

Basic insurance limits glasses coverage. Supplementary policies extend benefits to kids. Specific medical cases qualify under basic up to age 18 (59 euros own risk per lens, no deductible):

  • Poor vision from injury or condition
  • Strabismus
  • Post-lens surgery
  • Cylinder strength from 4 diopters
  • Deviation over 10 diopters
  • High myopia (more than -6 diopters)

Verify coverage to avoid surprises.

Tips to take out health insurance

Use online tools to compare and switch easily—saving time on 'which policy fits best?'

  • Review upcoming needs: physio, dental, family planning, or sterilization?
  • Avoid one policy for all; tailor to individual needs to prevent over- or under-insurance.