The mirage of “cheap” mutual insurance companies
What we think we will gain…
Laurence, a childhood friend, found a mutual insurance company at €18 per month. She thought she had made a deal. Until she had to change her glasses. €300 frame + progressive lenses, €50 refunded. As a result, she paid €250 out of her own pocket. His contract? Ultra-basic optical coverage, hidden behind an “economical” formula.
The same pattern applies to hospitalization. Some contracts promise wonders… until we look at reality: Reimbursement capped at €200/day, while a night in the clinic can easily reach €1,500. Suffice to say that the bill stings quickly.
… and what we should really aim for
Yes, a cheap health insurance comparator like Ferrets, LeLynx or TheInsurance Comparator can be very useful — as long as you know how to use it well.
Make your quotes during the week, preferably Wednesday mornings : advisors are often more available, or even more inclined to negotiate.
Use a dedicated email address to avoid spam.
And above all: Don’t stop at the price, also compare the guarantees.
How to use: use a comparator without being fooled
Step 1: Total honesty
Lying about your age or medical history? Bad calculation. Not only do you risk being refused coverage, but You’re playing against yourself when you really need help.
Step 2: Check only the essentials
If you live alone, without children, why pay for a maternity pack or an orthodontic package? Check only what applies to you. And ask yourself this question: “Am I really going to use this within the year?”
Step 3: Open your eyes to the details
Too often, we forget to read what is very small. The waiting periodsthe Actual repayment ratesthe whether or not there is a care network for optical or dental care… It’s these details that make all the difference between a good plan and a bad surprise.
📌 Since 2020, You can Cancel your health insurance after one year, at any time, free of charge. It’s the perfect time to Bringing competition into play.
Each profile has its own good reflexes
Senior : beware of disguised exclusions
Some contracts cut dental reimbursements after the age of 70. Yes, you read that right. It’s legal, but completely scandalous. The ideal? A contract without a medical questionnaire, which includes Third-party pharmacy payment, and who Guarantees actual costs in the event of hospitalization.
Construction craftsmen: pension above all
In the construction industry, sick leave is frequent, as are accidents. Must Check per diems (what you get when you can’t work anymore) and the Coverage of occupational accidents. The PRO BTP remains a safe bet: it negotiates competitive rates, even for the self-employed.
Families: beware of hidden limits
Some “low-cost” family policies only cover two children. On the third floor, nothing! Read article 7.2 or equivalent carefully: this is often where the truth is hidden. On the other hand Some insurers reimburse 100% for pediatric vaccines, or even speech therapy sessions. To keep in mind.
These mistakes that empty the wallet
Forgetting to negotiate You’d be surprised that a simple “I’m thinking of changing insurers” can trigger. A discount, a free month… Insurers hate to lose a customer.
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