Health insurance safeguards against medical costs, covering doctor visits, hospitals, and prescriptions. In 2025, with rising premiums, choosing wisely is vital. This article reviews top plans, coverage types, and selection tips.
Employer-sponsored plans like those from UnitedHealthcare offer group rates. Individual marketplace plans via Healthcare.gov provide subsidies based on income.
HMOs require primary care referrals, PPOs allow flexibility but higher costs. High-deductible plans pair with HSAs for tax savings.
Top providers: Blue Cross Blue Shield for network size, Kaiser Permanente for integrated care, Aetna for international options.
Costs: Average family premium $23,000/year, but out-of-pocket max limits exposure.
Consider needs: Chronic conditions need low copays, young healthy prefer high-deductible.
Open enrollment: November-December; special periods for life events.
Global: In Europe, universal coverage; U.S. relies on private.
Shop using eHealth or Policygenius for quotes.
Selecting the right plan prevents financial ruin from health issues