Health Insurance Considerations for Full-Time RVers

Many people are drawn to the allure of the open road, and full-time RVers choose to make this adventure a part of their daily lives.

If you are one of those travelers who love to explore the highways and byways of America, it’s important to make sure your health insurance is flexible enough to travel with you!

Why Standard Health Insurance May Not Be Enough

Most traditional health insurance plans available on the Marketplace are managed care plans: HMOs, PPOs, and  EPOs that limit your ability to see doctors outside their approved list of care providers.

Many times, these care networks are regional: they may provide great coverage in your home state. But have very few or no care providers in their network outside of your state – much less in Mexico, Canada, or anywhere else your RV adventures may take you.

For a full-time RVer who is rarely in one place for long, this can be a significant problem!

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Affordability is an Issue

If you’re among the millions of Americans who have been left out of the Obamacare subsidy scheme, you know how bloated and expensive health insurance really is.

Despite the passage of the so-called “Affordable Care Act,” the average unsubsidized cost of health insurance has more than doubled over the past decade.

That’s why many thousands of Americans who don’t get a subsidy are ditching overpriced, overregulated traditional health insurance products, and switching to health sharing plans.

Health Sharing: An Affordable Alternative to Insurance

There are some great reasons why health sharing plans are an excellent fit for the dynamic lifestyle of RVers, especially if you are freelance or self-employed:

1. Choice and Flexibility. Health sharing plans generally let you use your benefits anywhere in the country. So you can access services any time you need them, whether at “home” or on the road.

Health share plans don’t use regional networks – and most don’t restrict you to any networks at all.

Instead, most  health share plans allow you to choose any doctor, clinic, or hospital anywhere in the country. This flexibility ensures that you’ll still be able to access affordable health care––wherever and whenever you need it most!

2. Affordability. Health share plans cost as much as 50% less per month than traditional unsubsidized insurance premiums. So you can save a significant amount of money.

3. Telehealth Access. Most health sharing plans include telehealth options.

This allows you to connect with doctors online to help diagnose minor ailments, help provide treatment plans, and update prescriptions no matter where you are as long as you have phone or internet access. All with no copay or co-insurance costs. It’s included in your membership.

4. Community Support. Since many plans align members with common beliefs and values, they are a great way to still feel like part of a supportive community while you roam.

HSAs Will Help Stretch Your Dollars

If you’re eligible, another great strategy is to choose a Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

HSA’s offer great tax benefits and financial flexibility. You can deduct your contributions from your taxes, and your earnings will grow tax-free.

Additionally, the government does not tax withdrawals for qualified medical expenses!

HSAs empower you to directly manage your healthcare expenses, even while you’re on the road. The funds in your HSA carry over annually, making them a valuable resource for future healthcare needs or retirement planning.

Until recently, it was impossible to contribute an HSA if you chose health sharing over a qualified high deductible health plan.

But thanks to an innovative new solution, it’s now possible to combine the cost savings of a health sharing plan with the tremendous tax benefits of an HSA.

To learn more, click here to make an appointment with a Personal Benefits Manager, and ask him or her about the HSA MEC solution.

Will You Be Leaving the Country?

Crossing international borders adds to the adventure, but also requires some additional planning.

Standard U.S.-based health plans may not provide adequate coverage outside the country. So you may need to look into adding international travel insurance.

International travel insurance offers coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and even medical evacuation. They are designed specifically for the needs of travelers, and these plans ensure you are covered in Canada, Mexico, and beyond – wherever the road takes you next!

Combining your existing health plan with international travel insurance provides a seamless safety net that includes:

• • Supplemental Protection – Use international travel insurance as a supplement to your existing healthshare or HSA plan.
  • Flexibility – Choose a plan duration that matches your travel itinerary, whether it’s a short trip or an extended stay.
• • Peace of Mind –  Focus on your fun travel experiences knowing you’re covered in case of medical emergencies.
  • Ease of Access – Many plans offer direct billing with hospitals and clinics in Canada and Mexico, simplifying the process during stressful times should you ever need to use it.
  • 24/7 Assistance – You’ll have access to round-the-clock support for medical emergencies, travel advice, and assistance services.

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Enjoy The Road

As a full-time RV traveler, your health insurance needs are as unique as your lifestyle.

Don’t let health concerns slow your journey! Choosing the right healthcare plan involves balancing the pros and cons of the available programs with your travel lifestyle and financial situation.

Ready to explore your options? Contact a Personal Benefits Manager and let us help you  tailor a plan that keeps up with your adventurous lifestyle. Your health, freedom, and mobility are our priority. Safe travels!

For Further Reading: Health Plans for Digital Nomads: What You Need to Know to Live Life on the Go | Using Your HSA for Transportation Expenses: A Comprehensive Guide | Concierge Medicine and your HSA