Hard times call for desperate measures. My job was eliminated after 15 years, and now we qualify for Wic and Healthy Families. The WIC is working out well, but I need the health insurance. Any good experiences with the healthy families program? I need a doctor in the Lakewood/Long Beach area, and I refuse to use Kaiser. Thanks in advance for all your help and ideas!
My parents have healthy families for my younger brothers 11 & 13 and they love it. It's affordable and there are lots of good doctors & hospitals that take it. The only thing annoying about it is that I believe you need a referal to see certain specialists. I don't live near you to suggest any doctors--just wanted to tell you what I know :)
Hello N.. First off, I wanted to say don't feel bad about your situation, some of us are there with you. I lost my job in May due to downsizing, and haven't worked since, so I completely understand. I actually had healthy families while I was working (only made $40,000.00 a year, so I was under the limit still!) but once I started getting unemployment, I didn't qualify anymore because my income (dangerously close to $1500.00 a month, which SUCKS!!!!!!!) is UNDER the allowable limit, so I had to apply for MediCal (which has been a nightmare). Anyway, I had nothing but pleasant experiences with Healthy Families. I used Dr. Sedrak as the pediatrician when my kids had it. She is in Lakewood, right off of Downey and South St. I will admit she wasn't my absolute favorite doctor, but I could always get my kids in at a moments notice, which was great when my kids were sick and even when my son broke his ankle. My friend recommended me to her, and her kids (which are now 21, 20 and 17) have been going there since they were babies. Of course they don't see her anymore, but I put that tidbit of info in there to say that she went there a long time and really loved the doctor. Best of luck to you :) BTW... I refuse to use Kaiser as well.
First, of all let me suggest Kaiser...I have been a Kaiser member over 35 years with no issues. The Drs. are terrific and very attentive. You can e-mail your Dr. and get appts via e-mail...it is soooo easy. The LB Clinic on PCH at the Traffic Circle is awesome. I have had surgeries, babies, and many tests at both the LB office and I go to Harbor Cty......NO COMPLAINTS. You can request the same Dr. it is no issue. Highly recommend Kaiser.
P.
Hi N.,
Our family went through a similar work ordeal last year and we had to go on Healthy Families. So far, I have no real complaints. Unfortunately my kids current pediatrician did not accept that type of insurance but I was able to find them a different doctor, closer to home that did. We have only been to a few appts and so far, so good. You'll have to search around or get advice on a doctor in your area. I hope it works out for you.
Healthy Families is a great program... once you are an enrolled. It took me 6 months to get my son enrolled. I was fortunate that the doctor that he already had took the insurance. The doctor is in Newport Beach and they are great. I know its not close however if you want the name, let me know. The one thing that you have to make sure of with Healthy Families is that you are NEVER late on your payments as they are quick to terminate for non-payment.
We are self employed and had to start using healthy families about 5 years ago and LOVE it. I got to keep all the same Dr.'s that we had with Blue Cross. I use the Bristol Park Medical Group network and the Safeguard dental insurance. I also have the vision insurance, but that one is different in each area and you have to find the Optometrist you like and see if they are in the program.
Good luck!
Hi N.,
My kids have been on Healthy Families from day 1. Unfortunately my employer only covers me and based on my income I was able to enroll my children in Healthy Families. I actually think it's better coverage than the HMO I have for myself. For 3 kids, I pay $45 monthly premium and $5 for office visits, ER (been to the ER 3 times), dentist, vision and prescription. Pediatrician is in Torrance if your interested.
Tks
R.
Try Talbert medical group my kids doctor is Dr. Chen she is a good doctor. My kids both have medi-cal so I'm quite sure she excepts healthy families. And if you are looking for ways to make some extra money I could give you a few ideas. I'm also a SAHM with a 3 year old and a 1 year old and I have been married 5 years. Talbert is on Palos Verde and Spring right next to Milliakan High school.
Take care
D.
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