How to pick a health insurance plan

3 things to know before you pick a health insurance plan

How to choose a plan in the health insurance marketplace

How to Choose a Plan in the Health Insurance Marketplace®

How to Choose a Plan in
the Health Insurance
Marketplace ®

Choosing a health insurance plan can be complicated. Knowing just a few things before you compare plans can make it simpler.

deductible

The amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. With a $2,000 deductible, for example, you pay the first $2,000 of covered services yourself. Refer to glossary for more details.

A type of health insurance plan that usually limits coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract with the HMO. It generally won't cover out-of-network care except in an emergency. An HMO may require you to live or work in its service area to be eligible for coverage. HMOs often provide integrated care and focus on prevention and wellness. Refer to glossary for more details.

A type of health plan that contracts with medical providers, such as hospitals and doctors, to create a network of participating providers. You pay less if you use providers that belong to the plan’s network. You can use doctors, hospitals, and providers outside of the network for an additional cost. Refer to glossary for more details.

A type of plan in which you pay less if you use doctors, hospitals, and other health care providers that belong to the plan’s network. POS plans also require you to get a referral from your primary care doctor in order to see a specialist. Refer to glossary for more details.

A managed care plan where services are covered only if you go to doctors, specialists, or hospitals in the plan’s network (except in an emergency). Refer to glossary for more details.

Remember that plans also may differ in quality. Learn more about quality ratings.

Want to compare plans & prices now?
Provide some income and household information to see plans available in your area, with estimated prices based on your income.

More Answers: What to know before you pick a health insurance plan

How can I learn about the quality of care doctors and hospitals provide?

You can search, compare, and assess providers, hospitals, and other care facilities using these tools.

How can I find out if I can save on a Marketplace plan?

Use this quick tool to see if your income estimate falls in the range for a premium tax credit and cost-sharing reductions. The type of savings you qualify for may affect which plan category is the best fit for you.

How do I get details on plans I’m interested in, like if my doctors and drugs are covered?

You can view a summary of benefits, a plan brochure, a provider directory, and a list of covered drugs for each plan. You’ll find links to all of these when you’re comparing Marketplace plans or previewing plans and prices before you log in.

You can also search for your doctors, medical facilities, and prescription drugs when you compare plans. Select your doctors, hospitals and other medical facilities, and prescription drugs. When you view plans, we’ll tell you if each one covers them in network.