Health insurance

Health insurance is a plan, or policy, that covers a percentage of doctor's visits and hospital bills. It exists to help offset the costs of medical events, whether they’re planned or happen unexpectedly. Health insurance may also protect us when we’re feeling good — and may help keep us feeling that way — through wellness programs and preventive care.

Why I need it

• Health insurance is designed to help prepare for unexpected moments in life, like accidents or illnesses.

• Without health insurance, you could be faced with paying medical bills yourself, and health care can be expensive.

• Health insurance can keep you on track with preventive care — which may be covered by insurance at 100%, in many cases. Regular doctor visits may help you stay healthier over time.

How to get it

There are different ways to get it. But the working class generally gets it through employers.

When to get it

Generally, it opens once a year or on a qualifying life event

Types

1. Affordable Care Act.
2. Short-term insurance plans
3. Medicare
4. Medicaid
5. Through work
6. HMO, PPO, EPO, POS
7. Cobra

Insurance terms

https://www.uhc.com/understanding-health-insurance/common-terms