When it comes to issuing health insurance policies the insurance industry looks at the overall health of an individual and also the health of the population in that age bracket. Women simply cost more in health expenditures than does the average man. That translates to higher monthly premiums to offset the expenses.

One of the biggest reasons for higher premiums for women is birth control. It has been forced upon the insurance companies by law in some areas. That means that no matter what the situation a woman must be covered for birth control. That alone can cost an insurance company around $35 each month. Since the premium differences are far less than that the women actually come out on the better end of the deal.

The only answer to the insurance problems is to get away from policies that cover everything from a stubbed toe to a kidney transplant. Stick to the policies that cover catastrophic costs (like maternity, prolonged hospital stay or expenditures over a certain dollar amount). Allow individuals to pay for their day to day health care costs and the industry will become better, more affordable and easier to understand.

Insurance companies are out to make a buck. That means that the portion of customers that will likely cost more are going to have to pay more for insurance. It may not seem fair to the one paying, but it is fair to the insurance company that will have to pay in the end. That means that women will continue to pay more for their health insurance coverage (the insurance companies will get the men in other areas!).