There are several states which have high health insurance premiums and Massachusetts ranks as one of the very highest. A Massachusetts health insurance policy can average about $400 per month, which would include contributions from an employer. So why are they so much more expensive than some of the other states? There are a few reasons.

One of the main factors that lead to high insurance premiums is the cost of living. Throughout Massachusetts, it is one of the highest states with the cost of living, predominantly because it is also one of the oldest states. Just by living in the state, you will experience higher premiums - whether you like it or not.

Another reason for the Massachusetts health insurance to be higher is because of the hospitals that are inside of the state. Massachusetts holds some of the world's top teaching hospitals. Research and new procedures are taking place in these hospitals, helping to put them on the map and keep them there. As a result, their hospitals tend to charge more - even if it is just for a routine procedure.

All of these items come at a cost. The top doctors in the country, premium care facilities and many others need to be able to charge more. As a result, though, insurance companies are forced to charge their customers more in order to keep everything balanced. This doesn't mean that you have to pay the highest price, either.

Most of the hospitals that are in Massachusetts that are designated as teaching hospitals are in the "network" of different insurance companies. So, while you may have an HMO to save money over a PPO, it is still going to be higher than an HMO in another state because it is assumed that, given the choice, you will still go to the better hospital.

Everyone wants the best care possible. If you have the choice over two doctors and, due to insurance, they cost you the same, it is an easy decision that you would go to the one who is known their research or is a teacher in the medical industry as well.

You can still benefit from price comparison shopping for a low rate between different companies. Health insurance premiums can still be lower with one company over another. While the cost of living factor or the overall costs to the provided healthcare won't change, pre-existing conditions and age will still have some control over the costs in which you pay.

There are some companies who put a stronger emphasis on these over other ones, so getting rates from three insurance companies can make a difference. You can then determine who has the lowest rate.