Are you planning to shop for health insurance during open enrollment? Those who are new to this process don’t really know what to do. How do you navigate your way through the process in order to choose the right health insurance for yourself? There are also those who may have insurance, but might be interested in switching plans.
In order to do so, here are some of the top things you should know:
Review your options during open enrollment
It doesn’t matter whether you already have health insurance coverage or you don’t; you should take out some time for reviewing the options at your disposal during the current open enrollment period. You will be stuck with your existing health insurance plan or may be left uninsured for another year if you miss your chance in the open enrollment period. Furthermore, you should remember that at the end of the enrollment period, most of the websites will be busy and you may not get the personal assistance you require.
Consider re-shopping, even if you have coverage
When you are shopping for cars, TVs, phones and other items, you always shop around instead of choosing the first option. Do the same with health insurance. Even if you are already covered, re-shopping can help you in saving money. The best time to do so is during the open enrollment period. This is very important if you want to collect a subsidy or you may qualify for one.
Look for a plan that covers your doctors
Make it a priority to find health insurance in San Antonio that covers your doctors. Always double check whether or not your doctor accepts your coverage before you enroll. If you visit a doctor who is outside the network, it will be quite expensive for you as opposed to when you visit a doctor who is part of the plan. In order to check your doctor’s coverage, you can simply call their office and get the status.
Fill the gaps with short-term health insurance
You should know that no matter what health insurance plan you sign up for, your coverage will not begin for almost six weeks. Does this mean you cannot have coverage during the interim period? No, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can just sign up for a short-term health insurance plan. While these plans may not meet the requirements of the Affordable Care Act, they can be useful in restricting your exposure to unexpected medical expenses while you are waiting for your major plan to start.
Get coverage that meets the Affordable Care Act requirements
When you buy an individual or family health insurance plan on a government exchange or outside, you will still have the same essential benefits and meet all the coverage requirements as highlighted by the law. It is best to avoid coverage that doesn’t meet the Affordable Care Act requirements because it can leave you vulnerable to a tax penalty when you file returns.
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