How to Get Health Insurance

Getting Health Insurance 101

A large problem with the health insurance industry is that it's just too complicated for most people to understand what health insurance is, the different types of health insurance and deadlines for applying, what they qualify for and how much health insurance should cost.

CareCoverage was founded to make it easier for people to obtain health insurance coverage, which is vital for every person to have. In this article, Bjorn Dyberg and the expert CareCoverage team explain the essentials of getting health insurance, with all the information you need to know. 

What is Health Insurance?

Simply put, health insurance is a way to help everyday people cover the cost of medical expenses, which can be exorbitant. Having your own health insurance ensures that if you need medical treatment or medicine, it will be subsidized by an insurance company, who you will make payments to once a month.

What are the different types of health insurance?

Health insurance comes in four different forms:  

Employer-Sponsored Insurance

This is a health plan primarily paid for by your employer. It often covers not just you but often also your dependents. The costs are typically shared between you and your employer, and the premiums are automatically deducted from your paycheck. The pros of employer-sponsored health insurance is that you pay less for it, the cons are that you would automatically be kicked off your plan if you ever left your current job. 

Individual Health Insurance Plans

These are policies that you buy on your own, not through an employer. If you’re healthy and relatively young, you’d be able to find great and affordable health insurance policies on the private health insurance market. That’s where CareCoverage does its best work, helping our clients and partners find the best plans for them and their families.

For people going through health challenges or have pre-existing conditions, President Barack Obama’s 2009 Affordable Care Act (or Obamacare) guarantees the right to health insurance for every American. While slightly more expensive, you can purchase these plans through the ACA marketplace or directly from an insurance company.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal program for people over 65 or with certain disabilities, providing a range of health coverage options.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a state and federal program offering coverage to those with lower incomes, certain disabilities, or other eligible categories. People looking to see if they qualify for Medicaid can go to their state’s health department’s website to see if they meet the necessary requirements. 

How Can I Get Health Insurance?

Getting Health Insurance From a Health Insurance Broker or Agent

Brokers and agents-like Bjorn Dyberg and the CareCoverage team- can help you navigate the insurance landscape to find the best plan for your needs without any cost to you. They present options directly from insurers and offer more personalized plan options that make sense for you and your families, and at the most affordable price too!

RELATED READ: Welcome to CareCoverage

When Should You Sign Up for Health Insurance?

If you’re not covered already and qualify for private health insurance options, yesterday was the best time to obtain coverage. The second best option is to apply today. Unlike plans from ObamaCare or the marketplace, there are no deadlines to apply for private health insurance coverage. While some plans may have a 30 day waiting period before you can start using their services for non-emergency medical situations, you can get covered year round. If you need health insurance, contact the CareCoverage team today to see what we can do for you!

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

Costs vary widely and depend on which type of health insurance you decide you want. Medicaid and Medicare may be free if you qualify, Obamacare plans are more expensive because they’re geared for people who typically need it more than the average person would, while employer-sponsored plans will be half price for participating employees.

In terms of how much private health insurance costs, the area CareCoverage caters to and specializes in, factors that come together to affect pricing include the applicant’s age, the type of plan, and what copays, deductibles and additional protections you wish to pay for. Rest assured that when you work with the CareCoverage team you’re getting the best prices, service and care available today. 

Getting Health Insurance Through the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) Marketplace

The Affordable Care Act-ObamaCare marketplace allows you to compare and purchase plans if you're not covered by your employer and have preexisting health challenges. 

What are the deadlines to apply for health insurance through ObamaCare?

The ObamaCare Open Enrollment Period

This is the annual period when you can enroll in health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. It typically runs from November 1 to January 15.

ObamaCare Special Enrollment Periods

If you experience a significant life event, like marriage or losing other coverage, you might qualify for a special enrollment period to get insurance outside of the open enrollment period.  Qualifying life events include losing health coverage, moving, getting married, having a baby, or adopting a child, or if your household income is below a certain amount.

When Should You Sign Up for Health Insurance from Obamacare?

Open Enrollment

This is the annual period when you can enroll in health insurance through the marketplace. It typically runs from November 1 to January 15.

Special Enrollment Periods

If you experience a significant life event, like marriage or losing other coverage, you might qualify for a special enrollment period to get insurance outside of the open enrollment period.

This article was the first in a series of articles we’re rolling out demystifying the health insurance space, and making it accessible and affordable for everyone equally. 

At CareCoverage, we're here to make health insurance simple and stress-free. We're looking forward to helping you and your family get the coverage you need.

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and  guidance on getting the right health insurance for you!

If you're tangled up in the confusing world of health insurance, CareCoverage is the solution you've been looking for. We specialize in making health insurance simple and understandable, helping you find the plan that fits your needs perfectly. With a dedicated team that knows the ins and outs of everything in the health insurance space, CareCoverage has guided countless individuals and families to the coverage they need without the hassle. 

Book a FREE consultation with our experts and let us help find your ideal and affordable health insurance plan today!