You know the Web is the greatest research tool ever invented and one of the best ways to buy a variety of items on your terms and timeline. So why would a purchase that requires a little research not send people to the Internet in droves?  Like shopping for health insurance: A little research and some comparison shopping — a perfect transaction for the Internet. But if you’re one of the thousands of health insurance shoppers out there who have been shying away from the Web, we’d like to assure you that shopping online is not only easy, it’s real easy. And to prove it, we’re offering complete step-by-step instructions for shopping online:
 
1.  Review Your Needs
Before you grab the mouse, think about your family a moment.  What do they need?  Are you using medical care frequently?  Do you anticipate the need for maternity care or preventive checkups for children?  Ballpark, how many times have you and your family visited the doctor in the last year?  Do any of you need prescription drugs or have any chronic health problems? Do you want health insurance that will cover any or most of these items, or are you looking for coverage that will cover you mostly in the case of an emergency or accident? Do the tax advantages of a Health Savings Account appeal to you? Thinking some of this through before you begin will save you a great deal of time and trouble.
 
2.  Get Online
You can come straight to InsureMeOnline.com, take a quick tutorial on the differences between plans, then let us get you free quotes from a variety of providers in a matter of seconds. You can also go to your favorite online search engine and enter keywords like "health insurance" or "medical insurance."  Check out the top five or ten listings.  Chances are you'll find a broad range of different companies, licensed agents and referral companies to choose from.  You should know the key differences between these types of businesses before you buy a health insurance policy.
 
3.  Know Who You're Considering Doing Business With
Whether purchasing a health insurance plan through a licensed agent like InsureMeOnline.com or directly through the direct company, you’ll want to know who this company is.  Check the A.M. Best financial strength ratings on any health insurance company's Web site you visit.  InsureMeOnline.com makes this information easy to access without leaving our Web site.
 
By choosing to work with a licensed agent such as InsureMeOnline.com, you will save yourself considerable time and trouble by being able to compare multiple plans from a variety of different companies.  These agents are also able to work with the insurance company on your behalf to help resolve your billing or coverage concerns.  Licensed health insurance agents are overseen by both the companies they represent and by your state's Department of Insurance.  Any reputable agent should provide their state license number on their Web site.
 
An insurance referral site is different from a licensed agent like InsureMeOnline.com.  Referral services will request your personal information including, name, address, phone number and medical history.  Typically, they do not provide you an instant quote, but pass your information on to a licensed health insurance agent in your area, who will then contact you with a quote.
 
3.  What To Compare and What Not To Compare
Compare the coverage levels and benefits offered by different companies and plans in your area, but don't waste your time comparing rates for the same plan from multiple sources.  Your final rate is based on your personal information and medical history, and since health insurance rates are filed with and regulated by your state's Department of Insurance, your rate will be the same, regardless of whether you purchase your plan through an insurance company or through an agent.  Insurance companies cannot undercut the rates offered by agents.  Just look at four of five plans that fit your price range and compare the benefits to decide on the plan that works for you.
 
4.  Use An Online Application
It's easy to buy a health insurance policy online though a licensed agent with a secure Web site and online applications.  An online application can simplify the process and expedite a decision on your application.  A licensed online agent can forward your application to the company electronically so you don't have to wait for an application to be processed through the mail.
 
Though it's not quite as simple as buying a book, buying a health insurance plan online isn't as complicated as you might imagine.  By following the simple steps above and working with a reliable insurance company or licensed online agent like InsureMeOnline.com, you can save yourself a lot of time and hassle and make the most of your health insurance dollars.