Consumers Union Offers Tips to Choose a Health Plan in California.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BW HealthWire)--Sept. 2, 1999--

As the health care open enrollment season began September 1 for many Californians, Consumers Union urges consumers to conduct research and pick a plan that will serve them best.

To assist consumers with this task, Consumers Union has compiled the three-page tip sheet, "Choosing a Health Plan."

"Many plans are raising rates this year, and consumers may be inclined to choose the least expensive option," said Diana Bianco, staff attorney with Consumers Union. "But the cheapest plan isn't always the best choice. Consumers should evaluate their families' health needs and make sure the plan they are considering meets those needs."

Consumers Union offers facts and tips to help California consumers gather information when faced with a variety of health plans. The "Choosing a Health Plan" features a set of questions to assess health needs; resources for gathering information on individual plans; and advice on how to resolve problems with your plan.

"The state may soon improve consumer protections in the health care industry," Bianco said. "But Californians who have a choice in health plans should be vigilant when making one of the most important decisions facing their families. It's worth the time and effort to investigate each plan and medical group -- they will be in charge of delivering your health care."

Note: For a copy of the "Choosing a Health Plan," go to the health or tips section of www.consumersunion.org, or call Consumers Union at 415/431-6747.

Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization, serving only the consumer. We are a comprehensive source of unbiased advice about products and services, personal finance, health, nutrition, and other consumer concerns. Since 1936, our mission has been to test products, inform the public, and protect consumers.