Frequently Asked Questions
That is only for ACA/Obamacare and government plans. Private insurance is available year-round.
I have access to all public and private health insurance options. I also work with a network of qualified partners offering dental, vision, life, auto, property/casualty, supplemental, critical Illness, gap/short term, and more! In any case, I am happy to guide you in the right direction for any insurance needs!
Insurance can be acquired through an employer, the public market, or privately. Private plans are not income-based, eliminating the need for annual re-enrollment. These plans are on a PPO network which provides nationwide coverage and access to a large network of doctors and hospitals. These plans may have higher premiums in some cases but can be tax-deductible and offer fixed-rate guarantees for a certain time period. Every situation is different, however, if you're relatively healthy without any major medical history (ex. heart attack, stroke, cancer) you could be overpaying for health insurance coverage on the public market. Some private plans are medically underwritten and catered towards those who do not currently have severe medical needs or require weekly or monthly doctor visits. This option is more exclusive and requires approval but typically has $0 deductible plans available. Rates are not income-based, eliminating the need for annual re-enrollment. This is a popular option amongst the self-employed and those who travel!
Public insurance (ACA/Obamacare) is catered towards those with pre-existing conditions requiring more frequent medical care and/or medications . These plans are available to everyone and typically have higher deductibles and more restrictive networks. These plans provide income based discounts on coverage and offer lower premiums based on your annual income making them a great choice for low-income individuals and families or those with current and/or chronic medical needs. Annual re-enrollment is necessary to update income information during the open enrollment period from November 1st to January 16th.
Employer plans can be a great option since most companies offering this coverage are required to pay at least 50% of the employees premium. However, adding family members to your plan like a spouse or dependents can skyrocket the premium since there is no requirement for the employer to cover family members.
Using a licensed health insurance advisor can provide several benefits, especially when navigating the often complex landscape of health insurance options. Here are some key advantages:
Expert Knowledge and Guidance
- Industry Expertise:
Licensed advisors have in-depth knowledge of health insurance products, regulations, and market trends. - Tailored Advice:
They can recommend plans that suit your specific needs, including budget, medical history, and coverage preferences. - Up-to-Date Information:
Advisors stay current with changes in health insurance laws and policies, ensuring you receive the most relevant advice.
Personalized Plan Selection
- Needs Assessment:
Advisors help you assess your healthcare needs and find a plan that covers necessary services, such as medications, specialists, and wellness programs. - Comparative Analysis:
They compare multiple plans from various insurers to find the best options, helping you make an informed decision.
Assistance with Enrollment
- Application Support:
Advisors assist with completing application forms accurately, reducing the risk of errors or delays in coverage. - Deadlines and Compliance:
They keep track of enrollment periods and ensure you meet all deadlines, avoiding penalties or lapses in coverage.
Advocacy and Claims Assistance
- Claims Support:
If you encounter issues with claims or billing, an advisor can intervene on your behalf, helping to resolve disputes or clarify coverage details. - Problem Resolution:
Advisors can help troubleshoot issues such as denied claims or finding in-network providers.
Cost Efficiency
- Cost Savings:
Advisors can identify plans with better premiums, lower deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs, potentially saving you money. - Avoiding Over- or Under-Insurance:
By assessing your needs, they help you avoid overpaying for unnecessary coverage or choosing a plan that doesn’t meet your needs.
Ongoing Support
- Annual Reviews:
Advisors offer ongoing support by reviewing your plan annually to ensure it still meets your needs, especially if your circumstances change. - Policy Adjustments:
They can help you switch plans during open enrollment or special enrollment periods if your needs change.
Access to a Broader Range of Options
- Access to Multiple Carriers:
Advisors often have access to a wide range of insurance carriers and plans that may not be available directly to consumers. - Specialized Plans:
They can help find specialized plans, like those for chronic conditions, families, or seniors, that might not be easily found without professional guidance.
Free Service to the Consumer
- No Extra Cost:
The services of a licensed health insurance advisor are free to consumers, as they are compensated by the insurance carriers.
Overall, a licensed health insurance advisor can make the process of selecting and managing health insurance easier, more efficient, and less stressful.