Read any insurance policy carefully before buying. Be sure you know exactly what illnesses and conditions are covered. Once you select a policy, you will make a monthly payment, called a premium, in exchange for coverage. Typically, payments are made directly to the insurer; some employers provide for payroll deduction. In exchange for your premium dollars, insurance policies commonly pay for all or a portion of the following:

• Hospitalization
• Medical tests and X-rays
• Surgery
• Maternity care
• Pediatric care
• Doctor's office visits

Conditions and treatments that are often excluded from coverage include the following:

• Cosmetic surgery, except after a disfiguring accident or surgery
• Hearing aids
• Eyeglasses
• Dental care
• Preventive care, such as mammograms, immunizations or well-baby care
• Experimental care or treatments not recognized as necessary by the medical establishment. However, some major insurers are starting to include coverage for alternative therapies such as chiropractic, diet and nutritional programs, and acupuncture.