The situation with Florida individual health insurance is serious and ongoing. There are 46 million uninsured people nationally. In Florida, 90% of the uninsured are working but thier employers do not offer health insurance.

"Of the ten percent covered by their group or employer, the employer pays at least half of the employee's premium," observes Mary Saiz, Director of Individual Sales for VISTA Healthplans, the second largest HMO health insurance provider in the State of Florida. "This unfortunately leaves the issue of dependent coverage."

Saiz points out that Florida individual health insurance plans are taking on increasing importance because they provide a viable, alternative solution to an escalating issue.

"According to the AHIP Center for Policy and Research, individual plans have been very scarce," Saiz says. "Price sensitivity has been the number one concern followed by the level of benefits."

Saiz has seen a major increase in Florida individual health insurance plan business on behalf of VISTA. "VISTA is one of the few reputable carriers of Florida individual health insurance," she says.

"We have the second largest individual HMO membership in the State of Florida. We also offer the very best value for the benefits that are offered. In addition, VISTA, unlike other carriers, offers the same benefits in its Florida individual health insurance plans as they do for their groups. VISTA individual products include dental and vision benefits."

Florida individual health insurance policies are medically underwritten. The applicant must complete a medical questionnaire, which will then be submitted through the carrier's Medical underwriting department for review. The carrier will then either approve the case or decline the case based on the medical review.

Additional information about Florida individual health insurance through VISTA can be obtained by calling 1-800-558-7590.