If you're one of the many Americans that, for one reason or another, have had a health insurance claim denied, you would be forgiven for thinking that you've reached the end of the road, that the insurance company has made its decision, and that it's final. But, this could be a lot farther from the truth than you may realize.

A comprehensive article on the subject appeared in this weekend's Parade Magazine (Jan 20, 2008). In short:

  1. Know Your Rights
  2. Contact the Insurer
  3. File a Written Appeal
  4. Get Outside Help
  5. Demand An Independent Review

The article walks you through some of the basic steps you should follow if you've already been denied a health insurance claim.

But the trail doesn't end there. In fact, if anything, the place you may want to start is Health Benefits Direct. Sure, there are plenty of companies that will offer you a free health insurance quote, but what makes Health Benefits Direct unique is its FREE health advocacy offering on all major medical insurance policies. Health Benefits Direct has teamed up with Health Advocate, the nation's leading Health Advocacy group, in its first ever partnership in the individual health insurance market.

For you, that means that once issued a major medical policy through Health Benefits Direct, if, at any time during the lifetime of the policy you have a claim denied, you can call on Health Advocate and receive assistance completely free of charge.

It's a great service, setting Health Benefits Direct apart from their competitors. To begin, simply submit your basic information, and one of its licensed insurance agents will contact you and walk you through the process.