Plans: Plan categories remain as they were in 2014. There are 5 categories, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Catastrophic. These categories determine how you and your plan share costs. You now have the ability to select a plan and deductible based on your personal needs. You are no longer locked into a selected deductible because of a health condition.
If a carrier cancels a plan or exits an Exchange, the consumer can look for a better option without any barriers. If you simply decide the plan you selected is no longer right for you based on your personal needs, you have options.
Benefits: Benefits in the plans sold on the marketplaces continue to provide the essential benefits, cover pre-existing conditions, and offer free preventive services.
Monthly premiums may change. This year will be no different as premiums are expected to change. Your premium tax credit is also subject to change.
If a carrier cancels a plan or exits an Exchange, the consumer can look for a better option without any barriers. If you simply decide the plan you selected is no longer right for you based on your personal needs, you have options.
Benefits: Benefits in the plans sold on the marketplaces continue to provide the essential benefits, cover pre-existing conditions, and offer free preventive services.
Monthly premiums may change. This year will be no different as premiums are expected to change. Your premium tax credit is also subject to change.
Out-of-pocket costs may change. You may have deductibles and co-pays you are responsible for in addition to your premium. You may have qualified for a cost saving reduction, which is subject to change. It is important to know what your out of pocket responsibly is for the care you receive.
Type of insurance plans and provider networks may also change. Different plans provide different level of coverage for care inside and outside of the plan’s network. The network of doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other medical providers may change. It is important to know if your providers are still in your network.
Your personal needs may change. Prior to 2014, if you wanted to lower your deductible from a $5000 deductible to a $2500 deductible and had pre-existing conditions, you were locked out. It was impossible to lower. This is no longer true. You have the freedom to choose a plan just right for your current situation
Everyone should determine their “Net Cost of Healthcare”. This can be achieve by using the following equation:
Insurance Cost – Subsidy = Net Cost of Insurance
PLUS Expected Routine Medical Expenses = Net Cost of Healthcare
If you need assistance determining your Net Cost of Healthcare, CA invites you to call Michael and Molly. They are available to help you determine your Net Cost of Healthcare , answer questions, or you visit an affiliate site such as http://www.healthcare.com to help determine what plan might be best for you.
The best value for you might not be the plan with the lowest premium or the plan with the highest subsidy. Every individual situation is different.
For the first time ever, the consumer is in charge. CA can be reached at 800-432-3276. Your association is here to help you.