Health Insurance
This module covers health insurance, including its definition, uses, providers, and costs.
Health Insurance: Covers medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription drugs. It helps protect against high healthcare costs. The extent of this coverage can vary widely based on the insurance provider and the plan.
Common insurance providers:
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Known for its broad network
Offers comprehensive plans catering to a wide range of needs
UnitedHealthcare
Provides extensive resources and tools for managing health and wellness
Offers diverse plan options
Kaiser Permanente
Noted for its integrated healthcare system
Provides coordinated care through its network of doctors and hospitals
Aetna (a CVS Health company)
Recognized for its focus on wellness and preventive care
Cigna
Provides global health coverage
Preferred choice for individuals who travel frequently
The cost of health insurance premiums varies based on factors such as the level of coverage, the insurer, the geographic location, and the policyholder’s age and health status. On average, individual health insurance premiums in the U.S. can range from $300 to $700 per month, while family plans may cost between $1,200 and $1,500 per month. In addition to monthly premiums, policyholders often have to pay out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. The deductible is the amount paid out-of-pocket before the insurance starts covering costs, typically ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for individual plans. Copayments are fixed fees paid for specific services, such as $25 for a doctor's visit, while coinsurance is a percentage of the cost of services that the policyholder must pay after meeting the deductible, often around 20%.Â