Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height. BMI is a reliable indicator of body fatness for people. BMI does not measure body fat directly, but research has shown that BMI correlates to direct measures of body fat. BMI can also be considered an alternative for direct measures of body fat. Additionally, BMI is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that could possibly lead to health problems.

Of course, the BMI can be very subjective, and in fact, each health insurance company interprets the figures in a different way.

For example, a 5-9 male weighing 201 pounds is considered a “preferred” risk with Anthem. Yet, according to the BMI Index, this same person is just two pounds away from being considered “obese.” Yet, UnitedHealthcare will assign a “standard” risk classification to the same person.

As an Ohio broker, part of my job is to take into consideration the BMI of the applicant (along with other factors), and determine which carrier can offer the most comprehensive policy at the most competitive price.

To determine BMI, there are many online sites that will allow you to perform the simple calculation.

One such site is http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/

For additional information on Ohio health insurance plans or obtaining an Ohio health insurance quote, please click on the “Get Instant Quote” button at the top of the page.

The five major Ohio health insurance companies are Anthem Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Medical Mutual and Aetna. Each company offers policies that are distinctly different and quite competitive in most situations. Medical Mutual and Anthem usually offer the lowest Health Savings Account (HSA) rates in Ohio, while Humana offers low cost temporary health care plans. UnitedHealthcare and Aetna offer a wide range of comprehensive and catastrophic policies that give Ohio residents a large choice of options.

Ohio health insurance rates are extremely affordable compared to rates from other states. In-state premiums are expected to remain fairly low until 2014 when many of the national health care reform changes begin. Although rates are likely to substantially increase, tax credits could reduce the premiums for those that qualify.

Ohio health insurance companies offer policies to individuals and families. Whether you are unemployed, self-employed, without coverage or on Cobra, there are many policies that will fit within your budget and provide the coverage you need. Most policies are medically underwritten although physicals are rarely required. We”ll be happy to review your options. We never consider any type of “discount plan.”

To instantly review affordable Ohio health care rates, simply click on the “Get Instant Quote” button at the top of the page. Or, to speak to a live person, please call us at (888) 513 6446.