Health insurance helps protect you from medical expenses that you couldn't pay for on your own. Many Americans are, unfortunately, uninsured. If you currently have no health insurance, there are ways to get coverage, regardless of your financial situation. Finding coverage can help keep you healthy and keep you from racking up huge medical bills in emergency situations.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Look for public, community and affordable private health care plans using the insurance finder on the HealthCare.gov website. After you fill out a short questionnaire, HealthCare.gov will help you find insurance programs based on your income, job type and medical needs. These programs can include Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP). Created under the Affordable Care Act, the HealthCare.gov website is maintained and operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Along with providing health care options, the HealthCare.gov website also provides information on health care laws and general prevention and wellness.
Private Insurance
Private insurance is often the most expensive option, but if you're self-employed or work for a small business that doesn't provide insurance, it may be your only option for coverage. If you choose to look for private insurance, make sure you compare plans and fully understand how much your monthly premium will be, as well as your annual deductible, co-pay information and maximum coverage. If you have an existing health condition, your monthly premium may be higher, or you could even be denied coverage.
COBRA
If you've recently lost or left your job, COBRA, a federal program, allows you to keep your employer-based health insurance for 18 months or longer in some cases. You will be responsible for the full cost of your health insurance, including the part your employer paid for you, but this could still be cheaper than private insurance according to the Consumer Reports website.
Group Plans
If your spouse or domestic partner is covered by a group insurance plan provided by their employer, you may be eligible for health insurance under their plan. Adding another person to an existing plan may make the monthly cost of the plan go up, but the difference could be less than paying for a private plan. Children and adults 25 and under are also eligible to be listed as dependents on their parent's health insurance plans. Monthly costs may vary with the addition of dependents.
Ask Your Employer
Many employers provide health insurance for employees. Even if you aren't currently covered under your employer's plan, talk with them about adding you or you and your family to their coverage. You may be asked to pay into the network or have a portion of your salary deducted for insurance coverage, but for many people, this option will cost less in the long run than purchasing private insurance. Before signing up for a plan, ask for clear pricing, and compare the price and benefits with private insurance to make sure you aren't overpaying.
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