Health Insurance

Obtaining Health Insurance

Purchasing health insurance is an important consideration, for many reasons. Even if you’re healthy, unexpected injury or illness can cost tens of thousands of dollars without it. Insurance can also make treatment and prescriptions less expensive, and many plans include free preventive care such as annual checkups and screenings.

Fortunately, you have a number of options for obtaining insurance for yourself, and for your children, if you have them:

Government Plans: Some of your best options for insurance coverage are the government-sponsored Affordable Care Act (also known as Obamacare or the Health Insurance Marketplace), Medicare/Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Affordable Care Act – Makes affordable health insurance available to more people, including those who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Coverage can apply to medical, dental, vision and other services. Visit healthcare.gov to learn about your eligibility, potential discounts and more.
Medicare/Medicaid – Medicare provides health insurance primarily to people 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities or kidney failure. Medicaid provides coverage to eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) – Provides low-cost health coverage to children in families that don’t qualify for Medicaid but can’t afford private insurance. Learn more at healthcare.gov.

Employer-sponsored Insurance: Many employers provide health insurance through a company plan. As an employee, you’re given the option to join the plan (many employers offer several), and the employer typically covers a portion of the costs. Check with your employer to learn what they offer.

Private Insurance: You can purchase health insurance directly from insurance companies—the cost varies depending on where you live and your health profile. Private insurance can be costly, but some plans are available at lower rates.

A Loved-one’s Plan: You may qualify for insurance through a relationship with a family member who is already insured. Many insurers will include you on their coverage if you qualify—contact your loved-one’s provider to see if you’re eligible.

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