(ARA) - The number of Americans without health insurance continues to climb, while the number of people covered by employer-sponsored insurance programs continues to decline, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Between 2004 and 2005, the most recent data available, just under 16 percent of all Americans had no health insurance, the Census Bureau reports. That means nearly 47 million people are without health care coverage. "The sobering question is: How many of those who remain uninsured are actually in a position to afford health insurance, but simply opt not to buy it," says Jon Engleking, co-founder and managing partner with Secure a Quote, a Web site dedicated to addressing the consumer's growing need for information and education on health insurance.

"Poverty actually accounts for a small portion of that 16 percent," Engleking notes. "Many more people forego health insurance because they either think they can't afford it or don't need it. The truth is, everyone needs health insurance, and new types of policies and benefit options are making it more accessible to people at nearly all income levels."

With health care costs ranging from $70 to treat a sore throat to more than $3,400 to delivery a baby by c-section, going uninsured can have catastrophic financial consequences. Finding a health insurance plan that fits your budget and meets at least your most basic health care needs is an essential investment.

"Learning the basics of health insurance, and researching different companies and plans, will help you find coverage that's right for you," says Engleking. There are four main types of health insurance policies: health maintenance organizations (HMOs), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), point of service plans (POS) and indemnity providers.

"When shopping for health insurance, first identify which type of insurance best fits your budget and needs," says Engleking. "Then seek multiple quotes from a range of different carriers."

The experts at Secure a Quote recommend the following questions to help you find a health insurance plan for your needs:

* Does the plan allow you to see the specific doctor or hospital you prefer?

* How free would you be to choose your own health-care providers?

* Does the plan cover the services you need?

* Does the plan have a referral system and if so how does it work?

* How does the plan handle your care when you are away from home (out of network)?

* How does the plan handle your care when you are away from home (out of network)?

* What is the monthly premium, deductible and co-insurance, and do they fit within your budget?

* Are there other fees, such as co-payments and out-of-network charges?

* Is there a cap on the amount the plan will pay in a year or a lifetime?

* Will the plan cover your family as well?

* Does the plan cover pre-existing conditions? Is there a waiting period for coverage?

* Does the insurance company have a good reputation in the industry and a positive rating from a major ratings organization? To find out, contact your state's department of insurance for more information.

To obtain multiple quotes from leading insurers, visit www.secureaquote.com. Your quotes will come from agents in your area. The site also offers information on the different types of policies and how to evaluate what kind is right for you.

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