Whether you are self-employed or between jobs, securing your own health coverage can be an overwhelming task. There are many different layers when it comes to securing comprehensive health coverage on your own. You can take all the pieces or just pick one or two, but it is important to consider your individual situation, budget, and coverage goals.

There are four pieces of the health insurance puzzle to consider when putting together your health insurance plan.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is the foundation of your health coverage plan. There are three major types of health insurance (outside of employer coverage): Marketplace (ACA) plans, private short-term plans, and private long-term plans. At Acuity Health Advisors, we can help with the first two options.

Marketplace plans, also known as the Affordable Care Act or ACA plans, are plans that are purchased through the federal exchange (some states have their own exchange). These plans must uphold certain guidelines of coverage, such as covering pre-existing conditions and paying for preventative care. Depending on your income, age, and family size, you may be able to qualify for a tax credit to lower your cost of coverage. Acuity Health Advisors can help with determining if you qualify for a tax credit, guidance with the selection of a plan, enrollment, and ongoing support, all at no cost to you. We will also review your coverage every year to ensure you are on the health plan that is perfect for you. Even if you prefer to shop on your own to get started, you can do so here!

Short-term health plans are offered by private insurance companies. These types of health plans have terms from 1 month to 3 years. The biggest stipulation on these types of plans is that they are underwritten, which means that health questions are asked, and you can be denied coverage if you have certain conditions. These types of plans are a great option for those on a budget, those that need health coverage between jobs, or those that make too much money to qualify for a tax credit on a Marketplace plan. Call or email us for a quote today or you can shop on your own for a short-term health plan here!

Dental Plans

Dental insurance can be a great option for people that have issues with their teeth. Dental coverage can include preventative care like cleanings and x-rays, basic services like fillings and extractions, and even major services like implants or oral surgery. Most dental plans will have a network that will offer you lower-cost services if you use an “in-network” dentist.

The biggest thing to remember about dental insurance is that most plans will increase in coverage the longer that you hold onto them. Many plans don’t reach the highest coverage levels until year 2 or even 4. If you decide to select a dental plan, it is best to make your choice and stick with it for the long haul.

Vision Insurance

Vision insurance can be very cost-effective for those that wear glasses or contacts. Vision plans will most likely cover a yearly exam and give you a certain amount to use for glasses or contacts. With most plans, you must use an “in-network” eye doctor to receive the best discounts.

Supplemental Plans

Supplemental health plans are used to help ease the financial burden of a major health event. These types of plans can cover a wide range of events, such as an accident, cancer, heart attack, stroke, or serious chronic illness. If a health event happens, file your claim, and you get paid! Supplement insurance will pay you, not the hospital or doctor, directly so you can use the money for whatever you see fit.

Interested in quotes for any of these plans? Call us or email us today!