Choosing a health insurance plan can be complicated. Knowing just a few things before you compare plans can make it simpler.

The 4 “Metal” Categories 

There are 4 categories of plans: 

  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Platinum

These categories show how you and your plan share costs.

Your Total Costs for Healthcare

  • You pay a monthly bill to your insurance company (a “premium”), even if you don’t use medical services that month
  • You pay out-of-pocket costs, like a deductible, when you get care

It’s important to think about both kinds of costs when shopping for a plan.

Plan and Network Types

  • HMO
  • PPO
  • POS
  • EPO

Some plan types allow you to use any doctor or health care facility. Others limit your choices or charge you more if you use providers outside their network.

Family Insurance

Choosing a health insurance plan can be complicated. Knowing just a few things before you compare plans can make it simpler.

The 4 “Metal” Categories 

There are 4 categories of plans: 

  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Platinum

These categories show how you and your plan share costs.

Your Total Costs for Healthcare

  • You pay a monthly bill to your insurance company (a “premium”), even if you don’t use medical services that month
  • You pay out-of-pocket costs, like a deductible, when you get care

It’s important to think about both kinds of costs when shopping for a plan.

Plan and Network Types

  • HMO
  • PPO
  • POS
  • EPO

Some plan types allow you to use any doctor or health care facility. Others limit your choices or charge you more if you use providers outside their network.