Where to Find Affordable Health Insurance

I spoke with several of them, after revealing that I was doing research for a column, and found most to be quite knowledgeable. They don't get paid their commission until you stick with the policy for at least four months, so they have no incentive to waste your time -- or theirs.

The brokers are able to talk with you about policies available in your state. (Remember, all health insurance policies are state-regulated.) But they deal with a wide variety of insurance companies, and are skilled at figuring out what you need, and whether you are likely to qualify.

One confided in me that nearly 50% of the people who request information have pre-existing conditions that disqualify them. Others can get health insurance, but only for very high premiums. Another broker explained that he refers non-qualifiers to state-run insurance programs, which may be more flexible.

So if you don't have health insurance, or if you know someone in that position, send them to one of these websites. The search is free -- and it can't hurt to try! That's the Savage Truth.