What is the difference between basic and major medical coverage?
• A: There are two kinds of fee-for-service coverage: basic and major medical. Basic protection pays toward the costs of a hospital room and care while you’re in the hospital. It covers some hospital services and supplies, such as x-rays and prescribed medicine. Basic coverage also pays toward the cost of surgery, whether it is performed in or out of the hospital, and for some doctor visits. Major medical insurance takes over where your basic coverage leaves off. It covers the cost of long, high-cost illnesses or injuries. Some policies combine basic and major medical coverage into one plan. This is sometimes called a “comprehensive plan.” Check your policy to make sure you have both kinds of protection.
