How to Find Health Coverage in Tennessee
- 1). Contact an insurance agent. Locate one by conducting an online search, consulting your telephone book or contacting the Insurors of Tennessee, an association for independent agents. (See Resources for a link to the website).
- 2). Speak with your employer. Many employers offer insurance as part of a benefits package, including health, dental and life. Speak with your human resources representative.
- 3). Contact the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI). The TDCI "regulates the 1,600 insurance companies" and agents in the state. The department's website offers several consumer resources, including a list of companies by insurance type.
- 4). Speak with people in your network. Ask your neighbors, friends and colleagues which types of insurance they use. Speaking with people in your network provides additional information about insurance products, including responsiveness, customer service and overall value.
- 5). Contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). The DHS program provides coverage in two categories: Categorically Needy & Medically Needy. The program covers qualified individuals with disabilities, newborns, and recipients of supplemental security income (SSI), for example. You can apply online or at your local DHS office. (See Resource for a link to the website and office locations).