Firefighting is among the most rigorous and physically demanding careers. Firefighters’ communities depend on them to be able to extinguish fires and perform life-saving rescues in various emergencies. To continue that career path, their health must become a priority, making it essential to identify the right firefighter health insurance program for your clients and their families.

The Unpredictable Nature of Firefighting

Firefighters face unpredictable risks and encounter high levels of carbon monoxide and toxic hazards regularly. With physical risks like heat exhaustion, smoke inhalation, and burns, a normal day on the job can quickly turn into life-threatening illnesses, including:

• Chronic respiratory disease
• Heart disease
• Cancer

Firefighting is also a demanding and high-pressure occupation. The mental demands can cause workers to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Keep in mind that firefighters may not experience stress alone, either. High-risk occupations also affect the family’s mental health, as the worry for a loved one causes sleepless nights and unhealthy habits.

Health Insurance for Firefighters

A comprehensive firefighter health insurance plan should include healthcare, vision, dental, and prescription coverage. If your client has chronic illnesses or severe injuries, he or she could require expensive ongoing care, and the health plan should represent those potential needs.

In addition to healthcare coverage, their benefits should include mental health coverage. Not only can the job itself cause stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues, but recovering from physical injuries also tends to require mental health support.

To work as firefighters, they need to prioritize their health and fitness. Health coverage needs to consider preventive care so that they can remain healthy. All firefighter insurance policies should include coverage for emergencies, routine check-ups, and specialized care.

Health Insurance for Firefighter Families

Fortunately, firefighter general liability insurance policies may also offer coverage extensions that include healthcare. Most health insurance policies will also cover dependents, including spouses and children. 

While firefighters need specific coverage to account for the chances they take every day, their families need equal coverage. All families have risks of their own. Kids often have accidents or face illnesses that require comprehensive insurance coverage.

As your clients choose a firefighter health insurance plan for their families, remember to make them aware of various insurance provisions. For example, the monthly premium cost, copays, and deductibles will all impact the family’s economic status. You want to ensure they have insurance that covers everyone and remains affordable for the family.

Protecting Firefighters & Families With Firefighter Health Insurance

Firefighters engage in stressful, dangerous work. The rescues that firefighters make may take a toll on them both physically and mentally. Without adequate firefighter health insurance, they may experience financial hardship or put their families at risk if there’s an accident or if they face a chronic illness. 

When discussing general liability and health insurance with your client, make sure it is comprehensive and will cover them and their dependents. Contact us at Provident Insurance Programs for more information.

About Provident Insurance Programs

With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.