Health Insurance
Insurance
Health insurance is a type of insurance coverage that pays for medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured. It can provide financial protection against unexpected healthcare costs, helping individuals manage and afford healthcare services. Health insurance plans vary widely in terms of coverage options, costs, and providers. Typically, health insurance covers services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, preventive care, and sometimes dental and vision care.
Types of health insurance
Employer-Sponsored: Many employers offer health insurance coverage as part of their benefits package to employees and their dependents. These plans are often group plans negotiated by the employer and may offer a range of coverage options.
Individual: Individuals can purchase health insurance plans directly from insurance companies or through the Health Insurance Marketplace (in the United States). Individual plans vary in coverage and cost, and individuals can often choose from different levels of coverage to suit their needs.
Government-Sponsored: Governments may provide health insurance programs to certain populations, such as Medicaid for low-income individuals and families, and Medicare for people aged 65 and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans: HMO plans require individuals to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and typically require referrals to see specialists. These plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs but may have more restrictions on which healthcare providers individuals can see.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans: PPO plans offer more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers and typically cover a portion of the costs for out-of-network care. However, they often have higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs compared to HMO plans.
High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): HDHPs have higher deductibles than traditional health insurance plans and are often paired with HSAs, which allow individuals to save money tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
Dental Insurance
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