Best, cheap health insurance plans

With the public debates over health care still ongoing in the United States, it's clear that universal health insurance is a contested issue.

Even in Canada, which has universal health care, there are problems. Long line-ups, poor coverage, and a shortage of doctors leaves many people without proper health care.

Unfortunately, health-care costs are not going to stop rising. That being said, there are plenty of discount health insurance companies that provide great value.

While our sample region was New York City, the information here is pertinent to people choosing health care all over the country. Check out online insurance providers, like esurance, for more information.

1- Tradition Plus Hospital Program

Monthly cost: $136.85

This health insurance package provides the overall best value for single males. The reason? It's simply a no-frills, essentials plan. Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield is the stable, financial backer to this health care plan. The program is an indemnity plan, which means that you don’t have to worry about whether a certain doctor is in the network. The best part is that there is no deductible. However, that comes at a cost: you don’t have coverage for prescriptions, maternity or office visits. This is simply a good, cheap plan for a single guy who wants to make sure he’s covered in case of an emergency.

2- Full Coverage HMO with no RX

Monthly cost: $288.78

Covered by Atlantis Health Plan, this health insurance package is great for single guys who want good medical coverage without the prescription coverage. If you are a guy who requires no permanent medication, it will be well worth it to pay for your prescriptions only when you need them. However, if you do buy a lot of medication, don't purchase this health insurance plan. Instead, choose a plan that has prescription coverage. 

The HMO (health maintenance organization) part means that you choose one doctor to be your 'family doctor'. This physician will always offer the first diagnosis and recommend a specialist if you need one. Another bonus? This plan offers maternity coverage and coverage for office visits.

3- Full Coverage HMO with RX
Monthly cost: $331.87

Do you use medication? If so, this is a great plan for you. This health insurance package provides solid, all-around coverage at a good price. Like the previous package, it is an HMO plan, meaning you get a doctor dedicated to you and your needs. With this good value health care plan, you will have no deductible, plus you will get maternity and prescription coverage. This is a main thing which sets it apart from the previous health insurance plans. Furthermore, you’ll get help with any office visits.

Things to know before choosing your cheap health insurance plan

You really should assess your needs as an individual. Obviously, if you or your partner is not pregnant, then don't pay extra for maternity coverage. Likewise, if you don’t need medication, then don't pay the extra $50 a month for the prescription premium. Most importantly, don’t just take the first plan that is offered to you: decide what you really need, and customize your plan. 

Also, make sure you learn some important acronyms that designate various plans, like PPO, HMO, EPO, POS, etc. Break down the pros and cons, do a little homework, and make sure you get the best cheap health care plan possible. A little time invested now will more than pay for itself in the long run.