Many people have access to health benefits through their group insurance plan at work. In some cases however, some people do not have a group plan, are not involved with an association, and/or are self employed. In any of these cases, they may purchase an individual health plan.

These policies are purchased based on the family or single status of the individual. Some of the benefits are mandatory such as the travel and paramedical services like physio, massage etc.

In order to protect the validity of the program, the insurance company will conduct health testing prior to issuing the policy. If health issues are found, the company has the right to exclude a pre-existing health problem in the family. Examples of this would be asthma puffers, other prescribed drug use. Etc.

The individual health plan is built in optional components. This allows you to build a policy which is right for you and your family. The options include things like Dental, Drugs and Vison. You may also select a program where you pay a percentage of the drugs, (called a co-pay).

Note that an individual plan is often a little more restrictive then the group insurance, however these individual plans offer coverage where no other plan is available.