The American health insurance industry has changed drastically in recent years. Until recently most American families relied upon employers to provide affordable health insurance coverage. However, the economic recession has caused a ripple effect across the country, increasing unemployment rates and decreasing American business growth. This downturn has forced many employers to reduce or cut contributions toward employee health coverage. Additionally, reduced state revenue has caused a decrease in state sponsored health insurance coverage that would typically cover low-income individuals and families. These economic changes leave many Americans searching for an affordable health insurance quote for their family's health coverage. Due to skyrocketing health care costs, affordable health insurance coverage can be hard to find. Fortunately, the internet has revolutionized the way in which health insurance providers and consumers do business, allowing consumers to be in control of the type and cost of health insurance coverage they choose to purchase.

The American health insurance industry must continually adjust to the country's rising health care costs. Rampant malpractice costs, misuse of emergency department services, medicare fraud, and redundant medical procedures are just a few of the items adding to Americans' health care costs. Health insurance providers must be able to repay health care organizations for the price of treating insured individuals as well as the extraneous costs incurred by uninsured individuals. Health Management Organizations attempt to cut expenses by using strict utilization management review and charging fixed, prepaid fees for comprehensive health care services. Preferred Provider Organizations attempt to reduce costs by negotiating fees with in-network health care providers and encouraging their policy-holders to seek care within the provider network. Despite these efforts, rising health care costs are passed on to the consumer.

For consumers looking for an affordable health insurance quote, the internet has transformed the way in which they can shop for coverage. It is estimated that three out of every four Americans have access to the internet at home (Nielsen Net Ratings Enumeration Study, February 2004). This means that in order for health insurance companies to be competitive in today's marketplace they must publish their policy and cost information online. With so many health insurance providers advertising their products online, it is easier than ever for consumers to compare the available options and, in essence, demand better deals. In order to balance consumer demand and health care costs, insurance companies now offer a multitude of different levels of coverage ranging from 'accident and illness' only to comprehensive and preventative health care packages. The American health insurance industry has changed drastically. Thanks to recent health care industry changes, consumers are now able to compare and customize health insurance coverage to fit their needs.