Nobody plans to get sick but at some point, everyone will need medical care whether it's for a sickness, an accident, or both. Many people put off getting health insurance because they don't think they'll need it any time soon. Others don't consider getting one because they don't completely comprehend what health insurance is and what it can do for them. 

If you’re among those who are still debating whether or not to get health insurance coverage, you’re about to get convinced that having health insurance is one of the best ways to keep you and your family safe. 

What is Health Insurance? 

Health insurance is a type of insurance that pays for a policyholder's medical and surgical costs. It either pays the care provider for the covered person directly or reimburses the costs incurred as a result of illness or injury. Many US citizens can't afford to pay for their entire medical bills out-of-pocket so having health insurance can be financially beneficial. Simply put, health insurance is necessary for staying healthy and having financial security when you need medical care.  

Why Get Health Insurance 

Not many people see the importance of having health coverage until they are hospitalized and faced with a massive medical bill. Trust us when we say you don’t want to regret not getting health insurance when had the chance.

There are two main benefits of having health insurance: 

• Health coverage can help you if you get sick.
• Health insurance can help you avoid getting sick in the first place. 

Health insurance is a crucial safety net to have. It helps cover expenses that you probably can't afford to pay on your own if you become ill or injured unexpectedly. With health insurance, you can get the right care you need without financially depleting yourself or your family as it can shoulder your medical bills partially or completely. 

Typically, health insurance plans also cover check-ups, shots, tests and scans, bloodwork, and laboratory procedures helping you maintain good overall health and detect any illnesses you may have early on.  Early intervention can help prevent further complications and even save lives. 

What Health Insurance Should You Get  

Like other kinds of insurance, there are also different kinds of health insurance you can get. To help you decide, here are some types of health insurance to consider: 

1. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans

This is a comprehensive medical plan with the main objective of increasing access to affordable health insurance for more people. For more detailed information about the ACA plan, please visit Healthcare.gov. In a nutshell, this plan is suitable for you if: 

• You want coverage for pregnancy, mental health issues, pre-existing disorders, and/or anything else that might happen.
• You have a low income which makes you eligible for government subsidies under the ACA.

2. Short-Term Medical (STM) Plans

For individuals who might find themselves temporarily without coverage or unable to buy comprehensive coverage, short-term medical insurance offers an affordable answer. It's the right plan for you if: 

• You don't need coverage for maternity, mental health, or pre-existing conditions because you are generally in good health. 
• You just need protection for a brief time.
• You either missed the deadline for ACA or your salary is higher than the ACA qualifying bracket. 

3. Fixed Indemnity Plan 

Fixed indemnity plans are an extra layer of health insurance that cover out-of-pocket payments. By providing you with a predetermined amount of cash benefits to cover particular medical expenses, these plans offer an additional layer of protection for emergencies. Get this plan if: 

• You want economical premiums paid monthly.
• You want a plan that covers hospital costs but is content to pay the remaining balance out of pocket.
• You failed to enroll in the ACA by the cutoff date. 

Now that you know the importance of having health coverage, waste no time and explore the different health insurance plans available for you. To get started, Bankers Hill Insurance can help you choose what type of health insurance will suit your budget, needs, and preferences best. Get a personalized quote on our platform today!