You should consider buying individual health insurance policy for you and your dependents if you can not get insured through your or your spouse's employer-based health insurance plan.
Individual health insurance are not subsidized by the employer and are generally more expensive than group plans.
These policies are medically underwritten. Insurers can ask about your health condition, exclude preexisting condition or deny coverage depending on your medical history.
Buying individual insurance however opens up several health care plan options for you to choose from. And different insurance companies provide different health plans offering a wide variety of benefits.
So shop around before you buy an individual insurance policy.
eHealthinsurance is the leading source for Individual and Family health insurance plans nationwide, online or offline.
eHealthinsurance allows you to compare (do a side-by-side comparison) of the various health plans online and set your limits and deductibles.
Review the details of each plan carefully. If you wish to view additional benefits (life, maternity, dental) you can click on "Optional Benefits Quote" link within each of the health plan's detail page.
Remember to read the policy again as soon as you receive it. Use the "free look" period (usually up to 30 days) to 'test drive' your health plan. Make sure it is the coverage you need and that it is what you expected it to be.
Otherwise, you could always return it, get a refund and apply for a new one.