As veterinary medicine becomes more specialized and advanced, costs have increased. Equipment, facilities and skilled training required to provide these higher-quality services will continue to cause price increases in the future. As a result, the cost of care can be overwhelming. Pet insurance may help by contributing some or most of the costs of diagnostics, treatment and management your pet’s illness or injury.
Should I Consider Coverage?
Pet insurance isn’t for everyone, however, and there’s no “formula” that will tell you if it’s the right choice for your family. If you’re considering coverage, talk to your veterinarian and do some research on your own. Some considerations include:
- The provider should spell out to you all details. These include limits/exclusions of coverage for both wellness and emergency treatments, and conditions that require major care. Also, check to see whether premiums increase as your pet ages or claims are made.
- See if they have add-on options to provide any specific coverage (e.g., dental care, parasite control, etc.) you may want.
- Find out how pre-existing conditions (diseases or conditions your pet already has – or has had –are managed prior to purchasing the plan).
- In some cases, providers will not insure specific breeds of pets, or may place limits on your pets, if they consider them “high risk.”
- Some providers offer multiple pet discounts.
- Make sure you are completely aware of all of the charges, including co-pays, and deductibles.
- You should ALWAYS be allowed to choose your veterinarian providing veterinary care for your pet without penalty.
- Most pet coverage plans reimburse – i.e.. you pay costs up front and receive reimbursement by the insurance provider. Ask the provider the speed that claims are processed and reimbursed.
Options
The veterinary team at Blue Lake Animal Care Center can assist in your decision, but ultimately, it is up to you if you wish to purchase pet insurance. Consequently, we have provided an abbreviated list of companies that provide pet insurance. The list is not complete and is intended only to provide resources to help determine your options. As a reminder, BLACC does not endorse or have affiliations with any pet insurance companies.
Nationwide
Pets Best