Health insurance has always been a hot topic full of controversy and debate. This has been especially true in the last couple of years since Congress passed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that essentially provides more options for U.S. citizens, as well as more social health insurance programs. At the moment, it is difficult for many Americans to acquire health insurance through means typically used in the past such as employment. However, with the advent of the Internet, there are many more options available to everyone that provide affordable health care with the same type of coverage you would get anywhere else. But with all of the options out there, it is important to know exactly what type of policy to get and what should be covered. Prescription medication coverage is one of the most important aspects of any policy since prescriptions without insurance can be quite expensive.

Almost all health insurance policies contain some form of prescription medication coverage. The biggest difference between all of these policies is the type of prescription coverage and the amounts that are actually covered. Many people have been heading toward more basic health insurance plans because they are much more affordable and cover exactly what the name suggests, the basics. Doctor office visits, basic X-rays and an annual checkup are usually covered, though usually with some type of co-pay. Yet, when it comes to the prescription medication coverage portion of the plan, the basic policies don't cover much. Typically, with a basic plan you'll be covered for mostly generic prescriptions. Also, some prescriptions are simply not covered under the plan and must be paid out of pocket. If you are a rather healthy person, this may be a fine option.

More extensive plans tend to have a lot more in the way of coverage, though their monthly premiums are also much higher. Doctor office visit co-pays are slightly lower for these plans and you are covered for more procedures at a higher percentage. The same holds true of the prescription medication coverage for extensive plans. You'll have a much wider selection of prescription medications and also have access to the name brand medication as well. The costs for most medications are a mere fraction of what the cost without insurance is which helps you in the long run.

The important thing to remember when shopping for health insurance is that you have prescription medication coverage and that it includes much more than the basics. You'll soon find out that medications can get quite expensive if they are not covered at a high percentage by your carrier. Ensure that you have the proper level of prescription coverage.