But understanding health insurance plans is a surefire way to save a lot of time and money.
Understanding Health Insurance
With that in mind, the HSA for America experts have put together a list of health insurance things that you might not know, so you have a better understanding of your health insurance and can start saving money right away.
1.) Health Insurance Premiums are Changing All the Time
Like it or not, your monthly premium is going to change, sometimes every year.
The best way to keep costs down is to re-evaluate your plan on an annual basis. You could find a comparable plan that is more affordable; Your Personal Benefits Manager can help.
2.) It’s Not Cheaper to Go Without Health Insurance
A lot of people don’t think they can afford health insurance, especially these days.
However, considering that an average 3-night hospital stay costs around $30,000, the costs of not having insurance can be devastating.
3.) Accident Plans can Protect You from Emergencies
If you simply can’t afford health insurance, Accident Plans can provide base-level protection for worst-case scenarios.
These low-cost standalone insurance plans are as low as $20 or $30 per month, and aren’t subject to enrollment periods.
4.) Travel Coverage
If you travel frequently, check if your health insurance plan offers coverage for medical services abroad. Some plans include international travel coverage or offer it as an add-on.
5.) Financial Assistance for COBRA
If you lose your job, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the cost of COBRA continuation coverage, which allows you to keep your employer-sponsored health insurance temporarily.
COBRA allows employees and their families to continue their group health insurance coverage for a limited time after losing their job or experiencing another qualifying event.
6.) Know Your Network
All insurance plans have a network of providers that you can use. These doctors, hospitals, and labs will give you the best rates, while going ‘out-of-network’ can lead to steeper out-of-pocket costs.
7.) Chronic Disease Management Programs
If you have a chronic condition, your insurance plan may offer management programs to help you control your health more effectively.
These programs can provide education, support, and sometimes financial incentives.
8.) Mental Health Services are Always Available
All marketplace health insurance plans cover mental health and substance abuse services. This includes treatments like psychotherapy, counseling, and behavioral treatments.
9.) Some Services Cost You Nothing
Marketplace plans provide for some 100% free services, pre-deductible. This includes:
- Annual physicals
- Well-child visits
- Most vaccines
- Some preventive screening
10.) Know Your ‘Formulary’
The ‘formulary’ is a list of which prescription drugs are covered under your plan. Your specific plan will determine how much you’re paying for medications.
11.) Dental Plans are More Affordable Than You Think
If your plan doesn’t have dental coverage, you can add a dental plan for a small monthly cost.
12.) Your Plan Might Cover Alternative Therapies
Some health insurance plans offer coverage for alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy.
Check your plan details to see if these services are included.
13.) HSAs are an Essential Retirement Tool
Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, can help you save pre-tax money to use on medical expenses. This doesn’t just protect you from unexpected health costs, but it also serves as a tax-advantaged retirement vehicle that can boost your savings.
14.) You Kids Can Stay on Your Plan Until They’re 26
Even if your children are not living at home, they can stay on your insurance plan until they turn 26.
15.) Ask Yourself: Can I Afford My Deductible?
Take a look at your plan’s annual deductible. Is this a cost you would be able to afford if you got sick or injured? If your deductible is too high, you might need to switch to a different plan.
16. Wellness Incentives
Some health insurance plans offer wellness incentives, such as discounts on gym memberships or rewards for completing health assessments, participating in fitness programs, or quitting smoking. Take advantage of these additional incentives.
17. Check for Subsidies
You might be eligible for subsidies to help cover your health insurance costs. These subsidies are based on your income and can significantly reduce your premiums.
18.) Pay Attention to Enrollment Dates
The only time to sign up for health insurance is during Open Enrollment. In most states, this is usually from November 1st to December 15th, for plans going into effect the 1st day of the following year.
19.) Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
If you miss the Open Enrollment period, you may still be able to enroll in a health insurance plan if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events such as marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage.
20.) Health Insurance is Not the Only Option [Healthshare Plans]
With healthcare cost sharing, Americans have a new, legal route to affordable healthcare. These programs are not insurance, but rather a way for communities to share the cost of medical expenses.
Healthshare cost sharing programs are non-insurance arrangements where you pool your resources with other members to cover each other’s medical expenses. You pay a monthly share amount, which is used to help cover the healthcare costs of other members in need. When you need medical assistance, others help cover your medical costs too.
Interested in health sharing? Click here to find out what’s available in your area.
Compare Pricing on the Best Insurance Plans Available
Need Help Understanding Health Insurance? Call Your Personal Benefits Manager
At HSA for America, our number-one goal is to simplify the process of choosing, buying, and understanding health insurance. Whether it’s traditional health insurance plans or clever alternatives like healthcare sharing, we’ll connect you with the coverage you need.
You can reach your Personal Benefits Manager at 800-913-0172, or schedule a free no obligation consultation.
Here are some additional articles on health insurance: How to Become a Healthshare and Health Insurance Expert by Watching These 4 Videos | The Battle of Our Time: Fighting for Healthcare Freedom | 6 Things Your Health Insurance Company Would Never Tell You
Here are some additional pages related to this article: HSA Insurance Plans | Healthshare Plans
Hi! I’m Misty Berryman, and I’m one of your Personal Benefits Managers. I like working with HSA for America because we’re creating solutions to healthcare problems. Our focus on money-saving alternatives like HSA plans and health sharing programs, and the variety of health share programs we offer, are what set us apart. Read more about me on my Bio page.
