Health insurance for self employed?

[Guest thestockman]

Does anyone happen to know of a lobby or group of self employed persons who might have joined together for cheaper health insurance?

or -

Does anyone know of good health insurance for a self employed broker, with wife and one child? Is it better for the group plan, since maternity care seems to come with it vs. carrying a rider for simple self insurance?

Obviously eager to learn if anyone has some insight!

Thanks

[mroberts]

Check with your local Chamber of Commerce. They might have something for sole proprietors. I'm not sure how comprehensive it would be, but it's worth a shot. Otherwise, your best bet is probably going to be that individual policy.

[Guest parabene]

Try Working Today at WorkingToday.org. This non-profit caters to those working on their own, offering info, contacts, and access to group benefits. Also, some colleges offer group health to alumni (sometimes limited by the state you work in), so consider contacting the alumni office of any college you ever enrolled in, even if you are not a graduate. Some professional organizations offer group benefits to members; for instance, NAFE (Nat'l Assoc of Female Execs) gives access to certain health benes for its members. You'll probably need to make many phone calls and ask many questions, but options for independent workers can be found.