Navigating health insurance can be challenging, especially with so much misinformation out there. Let’s set the record straight by debunking 10 common health insurance myths, so you can make informed decisions about your coverage.

1. Myth: “I Don’t Need Health Insurance Because I’m Healthy”
While it may seem like a good idea to skip health insurance if you're healthy, unexpected medical expenses can arise at any time. Health insurance provides a safety net for sudden illness, injury, or emergencies.

2. Myth: “The Cheapest Plan Is Always the Best”
A low premium might look attractive, but it often comes with higher deductibles or limited provider networks. Balancing cost with coverage is key to finding the best plan for your needs.

3. Myth: “All Health Insurance Plans Cover the Same Services”
Health insurance plans vary widely. Some cover mental health, prescription drugs, or maternity care, while others do not. Always review a plan’s benefits before enrolling.

4. Myth: “Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Preventive Care”
Many health plans cover preventive services, such as vaccinations, screenings, and annual check-ups, at no additional cost. Preventive care can help you stay healthy and catch issues early.

5. Myth: “You Can’t Change Your Plan Outside Open Enrollment”
In some cases, you can switch plans if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events like marriage, childbirth, or job loss.

6. Myth: “Telehealth Isn’t Covered by Insurance”
With telemedicine on the rise, many insurers now cover virtual consultations. Check if your plan includes telehealth benefits – it can save time and money!

7. Myth: “Employer Health Insurance Is Always Better than Marketplace Plans”
While employer plans are common, Marketplace plans may offer better options for self-employed individuals or those in need of specific coverage. Compare both to make the best choice.

8. Myth: “Health Insurance Only Covers Basic Medical Needs”
From mental health to alternative therapies, many insurance plans offer additional services beyond basic care. It’s worth exploring these benefits!

9. Myth: “If You Don’t Use Insurance, You Lose It”
Many health plans offer annual wellness perks, even if you don’t make major claims. Check for benefits like gym discounts, wellness apps, or preventive care reimbursements.

10. Myth: “Health Insurance Won’t Save Me Money”
​Without insurance, out-of-pocket costs for unexpected medical needs can be overwhelming. Health insurance helps cap costs, providing financial peace of mind.

Understanding health insurance isn’t easy, but knowing the truth behind these myths can help you make informed decisions. Visit [Your Website Name/Link] to explore more tips, guides, and resources to help you get the most out of your health insurance coverage.

With Open Enrollment just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start preparing. It’s not just about choosing a plan; it’s about making sure your coverage matches your needs for the coming year. Here are five key questions to help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your health insurance.

Life changes can significantly impact your health insurance needs. Whether you've had a new addition to the family, a recent diagnosis, or just started a new fitness routine, it’s essential to reassess your current coverage.
​
Share in the comments – what life change has had the biggest impact on your healthcare needs?

Preventive care can catch potential health issues early and save you money down the road. Make sure your plan includes regular screenings, vaccinations, and check-ups.
​
What's one preventive care service you make sure to schedule every year?

Understanding your out-of-pocket expenses is crucial for budgeting your healthcare costs. This includes deductibles, copays, and coinsurance amounts.

Have you ever been surprised by an out-of-pocket cost? Tell us about your experience and how you handled it.

Before renewing or switching plans, double-check that your favorite healthcare providers are still covered. Out-of-network charges can add up quickly.

 How do you find out if a doctor is in-network? Share your tips with the community.

Telehealth is becoming more popular, offering convenient access to medical care without leaving your home. See if your health plan includes telemedicine services, which can save you time and money.

 Have you tried telehealth? What was your experience like?

Open Enrollment is your annual opportunity to make sure your health insurance is aligned with your needs. By asking yourself these five questions, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right plan and avoid common pitfalls.
​
Let’s hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s start a conversation about getting the best health coverage for 2025.

As the year comes to an end, it's important to start thinking about your health insurance options for the upcoming year. Whether you're an individual looking for coverage or a business owner seeking the best benefits for your employees, the time to act is now. Here’s why reevaluating your health insurance needs could be one of the most impactful decisions you make this season.

With Open Enrollment just a few weeks away, now is the perfect time to explore your health insurance options. During this period, you have the flexibility to switch plans, adjust your coverage, or add supplementary benefits to suit your changing needs.

Tip for Individuals: Review your current health insurance plan to ensure it still meets your needs. If your health situation has changed or your coverage feels insufficient, now’s the time to find a plan that better suits your lifestyle.
​
Tip for Employers: Use this time to assess your current employee benefits package. Are there areas where you could improve coverage or offer more competitive benefits? Employee satisfaction with health insurance can significantly influence retention and morale.

With the costs of healthcare continually increasing, having the right health insurance plan can be a game-changer. If you're not adequately covered, you could be exposed to high out-of-pocket costs. Now is the time to ensure that you have comprehensive coverage that protects you financially.

Key Considerations:
​

• Look for plans with reasonable deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
• Make sure your preferred healthcare providers are in-network.
• Consider supplemental coverage, such as dental and vision, to fill any gaps.

For business owners, providing quality health insurance isn't just a benefit—it's a strategic investment. Offering a comprehensive health insurance package helps attract top talent, improves employee well-being, and boosts productivity. Additionally, providing health coverage can be a tax-efficient way to compensate your team.
​
Pro Tip: Regularly reviewing your health insurance offerings and making necessary updates can make your business more attractive to prospective employees and help retain your current staff.

Modern health insurance plans often include benefits beyond traditional doctor visits. Telemedicine options, wellness programs, and mental health support are increasingly becoming standard. Ensuring that your insurance plan includes these features can save you time, reduce costs, and support a healthier lifestyle.
​
Did You Know?
Telemedicine visits are often covered at a lower copay than in-person visits, making it an affordable and convenient option for non-emergency healthcare.

For employers, keeping up with ACA compliance is not optional. Offering a health plan that meets minimum essential coverage requirements can help avoid penalties and ensure you’re providing value to your employees. Stay ahead of any regulatory changes to avoid surprises and ensure compliance.

Health insurance is more than just a legal requirement or a safety net—it's an investment in your well-being and your future. Whether you're an individual looking to secure your health coverage or a business owner preparing for Open Enrollment, now is the time to act. Don't wait until the last minute to evaluate your options; start exploring your health insurance needs today to make the best decisions for tomorrow.

Connect with us to learn more about your options and ensure you're fully prepared for the upcoming Open Enrollment. Let’s find the right plan for you and maximize your health coverage.

Healthcare costs are a major concern for many individuals and families, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of your coverage. Here are five practical tips to help you keep your healthcare expenses under control while still receiving the care you need.

Many health insurance plans cover preventive care services at no additional cost to you. These services include annual check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings, which can help detect potential health issues early on and avoid costly treatments down the road.
​
Tip: Make sure you're aware of the preventive services covered under your plan and schedule them regularly.

The cost of prescription drugs can vary significantly between pharmacies. Using online tools or mobile apps to compare prices can help you find the best deals. Some pharmacies also offer discount programs or generic alternatives that can further reduce costs.

Tip: Check with your insurer to see if your plan offers any prescription discount programs or mail-order options.

Telemedicine can be a cost-effective and convenient alternative to traditional in-person doctor visits. Many health insurance plans include telehealth options that allow you to consult with a doctor virtually, often at a lower copay than an office visit.
​
Tip: Use telemedicine for non-emergency health issues such as minor illnesses, follow-ups, or medication refills.

Out-of-network healthcare providers often come with higher costs, as insurers may only cover a portion of the charges, if at all. Make sure your doctors, specialists, and hospitals are in your insurance plan's network to avoid unexpected expenses.
​
​Tip: If you need to see a specialist, ask your primary care physician for a referral to an in-network provider.

​Health insurance needs can change from year to year, especially if you experience life changes such as marriage, the birth of a child, or a new job. Review your plan annually during Open Enrollment to ensure you're getting the best coverage at the most affordable rate.
​
Tip: Look for plans that provide the best balance between premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums.

By following these tips, you can manage your healthcare expenses more effectively without compromising on the quality of your coverage. Being proactive, staying informed, and utilizing your health plan's benefits can help you save money while staying healthy.

Open Enrollment is a crucial time to secure your health insurance coverage for the upcoming year. It’s also easy to make mistakes that can lead to higher costs or insufficient coverage. Here are the top five mistakes people make during Open Enrollment and how to avoid them to ensure you get the best plan for your needs.

One of the biggest mistakes is procrastinating. Many people wait until the final days of Open Enrollment to start reviewing their options, which can lead to rushed decisions and missing out on the best plans.
​
How to avoid it:
Start the process early. Mark your calendar with important Open Enrollment dates, and set reminders to begin researching plans as soon as the enrollment period opens. The more time you have, the better you can compare your options and make an informed choice.

While a lower monthly premium may seem appealing, it’s important to consider the total cost of the plan. Plans with lower premiums often come with higher deductibles, copayments, or out-of-pocket maximums, which can add up quickly if you need medical care.
​
How to avoid it:
Look beyond the premium and assess the overall costs, including deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket limits. Choose a plan that offers the right balance between premiums and potential medical expenses, based on your anticipated healthcare needs.

Many people assume that their preferred doctors or healthcare providers will be covered under any plan. However, plans can have different networks, and not all doctors accept the same insurance.
​
How to avoid it:
Before selecting a plan, verify that your doctors and specialists are in the network. If you have a preferred hospital, make sure it is covered under the plan's network as well. This will help you avoid unexpected out-of-network charges.

If you take prescription medications regularly, not checking the plan’s drug coverage can be a costly mistake. Different plans cover medications differently, and some may have higher costs or limit coverage for certain drugs.
​
How to avoid it:
Review each plan's formulary to ensure your medications are covered, and check the copays or coinsurance rates for your prescriptions. If you are taking specialized or high-cost medications, look for plans with lower copays or broader drug coverage.

Life changes like getting married, having a child, or a change in income can affect your eligibility for subsidies or different coverage options. Failing to update your personal information can lead to selecting a plan that doesn’t meet your current needs.
​
How to avoid it:
Make sure all your personal information is up to date in the health insurance marketplace. This includes your household size, income, and any other relevant details that may affect your coverage or subsidies.

Open Enrollment is your opportunity to secure the best health insurance coverage for the year ahead. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking a proactive approach, you can find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
​
Don’t wait until the last minute—start planning now and make sure you’re covered for the upcoming year!

The Open Enrollment period is just around the corner, and we’re here to ensure that you have all the support you need! Open Enrollment is a critical time to secure or renew your health insurance coverage for 2025, and our team is ready to assist you every step of the way.
​
To make sure we’re available when you need us, here’s our Open Enrollment Schedule for the upcoming season:

We will typically be available from 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM most days, but some extended hours are included to ensure we're there when you need us, especially in the final days of Open Enrollment. This includes hours until 8 PM most nights and specific days with coverage until midnight.
​
If you have any questions or need assistance with your health insurance, don’t hesitate to contact us during these hours.

Here are some common pitfalls people encounter with Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Underestimating Income for Subsidies

Many ACA plans offer subsidies to help lower your premiums based on your income. However, underestimating your income can result in receiving more subsidies than you're entitled to, which could mean paying back the excess when filing taxes.

How to avoid it:
Be as accurate as possible when estimating your income. If your income changes during the year, report it promptly to the marketplace to avoid subsidy discrepancies.

2. Not Understanding the Network Coverage

ACA plans often limit their coverage to certain networks of doctors, hospitals, and specialists. If you don’t check which providers are in-network, you may end up paying higher out-of-network fees.

How to avoid it:
Always check whether your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network before choosing a plan. Use the plan’s network directory or ask your providers directly.

3. Ignoring Out-of-Pocket Costs

Focusing solely on monthly premiums is a common mistake. Plans with lower premiums often come with higher out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. These costs can add up quickly if you need medical care.

How to avoid it:
Look beyond the premium and evaluate the total cost, including deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Consider how often you’ll need healthcare and balance those costs with the premium.

4. Missing Enrollment Deadlines

The ACA has strict enrollment periods, and missing them can leave you without coverage for the entire year, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to life events like marriage, birth of a child, or job loss.

How to avoid it:
Mark the Open Enrollment Period on your calendar (typically from November 1 to December 15 for coverage starting January 1). Stay informed about deadlines and apply early to avoid delays.

5. Overlooking Prescription Drug Coverage

Not all ACA plans cover the same medications, and some plans may have higher costs for certain drugs. If you have regular prescriptions, this can impact your out-of-pocket costs significantly.

How to avoid it:
Check each plan’s formulary (the list of covered medications) to ensure your prescriptions are covered. Also, review any copay or coinsurance costs for prescription drugs to avoid surprises at the pharmacy.

Conclusion

​To avoid these common ACA pitfalls, it’s crucial to take the time to understand your options, carefully review the plan’s details, and stay informed throughout the enrollment process. This will help you choose the best plan for your needs and prevent unexpected costs down the line.

Choosing the right health insurance plan can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Whether you're new to the process or just looking to update your coverage, these top five tips will help you make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.

Before choosing a plan, it's essential to understand your healthcare needs. Ask yourself:
​

• Do you visit the doctor frequently?
• Do you have any ongoing prescriptions or conditions?
• Are you planning any major medical procedures?

By knowing what kind of care you’ll need in the coming year, you can choose a plan that provides the right coverage for those services, helping you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

Health insurance plans vary in terms of costs, primarily through premiums and deductibles:
​

• Premium: The amount you pay monthly to keep your insurance active.
• Deductible: The amount you pay out-of-pocket for healthcare services before your insurance kicks in.

While a plan with a lower premium might seem attractive, it’s important to look at the deductible as well. A lower premium often means a higher deductible, so weigh the balance between what you can afford monthly versus out-of-pocket costs.

Most health insurance plans have networks of doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers. Make sure the plan you choose includes your preferred doctors and nearby hospitals. It’s also important to verify that any specialists you may need are in the network to avoid higher out-of-network costs.

If you take regular medications, it’s important to check how your plan covers prescription drugs. Different plans categorize drugs into “tiers” that affect how much you pay for them. Make sure the plan covers your prescriptions and that the copays are affordable.

Many health insurance plans offer extra benefits beyond standard medical coverage, such as:
​

• Dental, Vision, and Hearing coverage
• Telemedicine services
• Mental health support

These added benefits can make a big difference in the overall value of your plan. If these are services you may need, look for a plan that includes them at no extra cost.

Choosing the right health insurance plan is all about finding a balance between costs, coverage, and convenience. By assessing your needs and comparing the options available, you can find a plan that fits your life and budget. Remember, your health is an investment—make sure you're covered!

Yes, you can switch health insurance mid-year, but it depends on specific circumstances. Generally, you can change your health insurance outside of the annual Open Enrollment Period if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to certain life events. Here's how and when you can switch:

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event. Some common qualifying events include:
​

• Marriage or divorce
• Having a baby or adopting a child
• Losing your existing coverage (for example, if you lose job-based insurance)
• Moving to a new state or coverage area
• A significant change in income
• Turning 26 and aging off your parent's health plan

When one of these events occurs, you typically have 60 days from the date of the event to enroll in a new health plan or switch plans.

If your income changes significantly, you may become eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs allow you to enroll or switch plans at any time during the year, and you don’t have to wait for Open Enrollment to access these programs.

If you have insurance through your job, your employer may allow you to switch plans during the year due to a qualifying life event or if there are changes to your employment status. Check with your HR department for details about your company's policy.

If you lose your job and the health insurance that came with it, you may be able to continue your existing coverage through COBRA. COBRA allows you to keep your current plan for a limited time (usually up to 18 months), but you’ll be responsible for paying the full premium, which can be more expensive.

In rare cases, your insurance provider may make mid-year changes to your plan, such as discontinuing it. In this case, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to switch to a new plan.

If you don’t qualify for an SEP but still need coverage, short-term health insurance can be an option. These plans provide temporary coverage but are generally limited in benefits and may not cover pre-existing conditions. They are not considered a long-term replacement for comprehensive health insurance.

You can switch health insurance mid-year if:

• You experience a qualifying life event (like marriage, childbirth, or moving).
• You qualify for Medicaid or CHIP.
• Your employer allows changes due to life events or employment changes.
• You lose your job and choose to continue your coverage through COBRA.

If you don't meet these criteria, you'll likely need to wait for the next Open Enrollment Period to switch plans.
If you need help navigating your options, feel free to reach out to us at Better Health Consulting for guidance.

​When it comes to health insurance, most people know the basics: pay your premiums, stay in-network, and keep track of your deductible. But there’s a lot more to getting the most out of your health coverage than just the obvious. In this post, we’ll share five surprising health insurance tips that you probably haven’t heard before—tips that can help you save money, avoid unexpected bills, and make the most of your healthcare plan.

Did you know that your medical bills aren’t always set in stone? Whether it’s an unexpected hospital visit or a high out-of-pocket cost for a procedure, many healthcare providers are willing to negotiate your bill if you can’t pay it in full.
​

• How It Works: If you receive a medical bill that’s higher than expected, call your provider’s billing department and ask if they offer discounts for upfront payments or payment plans. Many hospitals and doctors’ offices have financial assistance programs that can reduce your bill by up to 50% or more.
• Pro Tip: Always review your bill for errors before paying. Medical billing mistakes are common, and you may be charged for services you didn’t receive or overcharged for procedures.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are great for covering doctor visits and prescription medications, but did you know that you can use them for a wide range of other healthcare-related expenses?
​

• What You Can Cover: HSAs and FSAs can be used for things like over-the-counter medications, eyeglasses, contact lenses, acupuncture, and even chiropractic care. You can also use these accounts to pay for health-related travel expenses, such as gas or parking fees for doctor’s visits.
• Pro Tip: Be sure to spend the balance in your FSA by the end of the year, as funds typically don’t roll over. HSAs, on the other hand, allow you to carry over unused funds from year to year.

Many health insurance plans, especially those offered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), provide free preventive care services. These are services you can access without having to meet your deductible or pay a copay.
​

• What’s Included: Free preventive services often include annual wellness checkups, vaccinations, cancer screenings, cholesterol tests, and more. Taking advantage of these services can help catch potential health issues early, saving you money in the long run.
• Pro Tip: Schedule these preventive services every year to maintain your health and avoid costly medical bills for preventable conditions.

If you’re between jobs or don’t have health insurance, you can still access discounted healthcare services. Many providers and pharmacies offer cash-pay discounts, which can sometimes be cheaper than using insurance.
​

• How It Works: Some doctors and clinics will reduce the cost of your visit if you pay out-of-pocket rather than going through insurance. Additionally, apps and websites like GoodRx can help you find discounted prescription medications.
• Pro Tip: Always ask your healthcare provider if they offer a discount for cash payments. You’d be surprised how many do!

Many people stick with the same health insurance plan year after year without checking to see if their preferred doctors, hospitals, and specialists are still in-network. However, insurance networks can change from year to year, and a provider that was in-network last year might not be in-network this year.
​

• Why It Matters: Going out-of-network can result in significantly higher medical costs, so it’s important to review your network during the Open Enrollment period each year to ensure your preferred providers are still covered.
• Pro Tip: If your provider is no longer in-network, don’t panic. Reach out to your insurance carrier to see if there’s a way to keep your doctor or find a comparable provider within the network.

Conclusion:
​
Health insurance can be tricky, but by staying informed and exploring your options, you can make sure you’re getting the best care at the best price. From negotiating medical bills to using your HSA or FSA for unexpected expenses, these tips can help you maximize the value of your health insurance plan.

If you have any questions or need help navigating your health insurance options, reach out to us at Better Health Consulting. We’re here to help you make the most of your coverage!