The Road So Far:
Health care in the United States changed drastically since the inception of Obamacare in 2010. Also known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the new law reformed how healthcare was provided to the citizens of the United States of America.
Before Obamacare, health insurance was an exclusive business and only those who could afford to buy health insurance reaped its benefits. A large population in the country either did not have insurance at all or owned policies that were basic in nature and did not cover pre-existing conditions. Due to the structure of such policies, people could not afford regular visits to the doctor and often ended up with massive bills that their policies did not cover.
Obamacare also introduced a penalty that required every individual to have health insurance for at least 9 months out of the total 12 in order to enable people to claim health benefits for pre-existing conditions prior to buying a policy. However, this penalty became largely unpopular over the years and was finally repealed, effective in 2019.
Current Scenario:
Today, health insurance has become very expensive in the USA and lack of universal healthcare makes it necessary for people to buy health insurance in order to protect themselves against unexpected medical costs. Most employed people get health insurance as an additional benefit from their employers. However, for those who have to opt for marketplace health insurance, there are a number of options available that will provide them the best coverages. Buying private health insurance protects you from high medical expenses in a lot of ways:
- Reduced costs after reaching deductible: Once your expenses reach your deductible amount, your insurance plan covers 60–90% of your expenses based on the kind of plan you have purchased.
- Out-of-pocket maximum: According to your health insurance plan there is a maximum amount that you need to pay beyond which, all expenses will be handled by your insurance company. This benefit helps during times when the cost of health care is unexpectedly high.
- No yearly or lifetime limits: No matter what the cost for health care is, there are no limits to the expenses that you will incur as an insured individual.
Despite health care being expensive in the USA, with the right health insurance policy, you can save a substantial amount. Our list includes some of the best health insurance providers in the country that offer the best coverages and services to a wide range of customers from various segments:
1. Kaiser Permanente:
Kaiser Permanente is one of the leading non-profit healthcare organizations in the USA. Available in nine states, this organization boasts of excellent customer satisfaction reviews. Its pricing is competitive and Kaiser Permanente also offers a side-by-side analysis of the various plans it has under its gambit. The insurance provider also has an app that can be used to make appointments, view reports, order medication and even access your medical records.
2. Aetna:
Offering, dental, vision as well as health insurance, Aetna offers one of the cheapest insurance plans across the country as its pricing is lower than many of its competitors. Hailed as “best for customer satisfaction” in the states Delaware, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia and D.C, Aetna is the best bet for those looking for medicare advantage.
3. Blue Cross/Blue Shield:
Blue Cross/Blue Shield has such a large presence in the USA, that one out of every three Americans relies on their insurance policies. Being one of the most recognizable brands in the country, there are at least 36 companies affiliated with the insurance giant. Due to its large presence, BCBS customers get access to notable discounts and wellness programs across the country.
4. United Healthcare:
With an A.M. Best financial rating of ‘A’(Excellent), United Healthcare, focuses on providing comprehensive health benefits to customers who prefer online options rather than the traditional pen and paper approach to insurance. From ordering prescriptions online to communicating with a nurse and participating in online wellness programs, United Healthcare focuses on expanding its online presence to cater to different customer segments with its app that promises a standout experience for its users.
5. Cigna:
Cigna insurance and its subsidiaries operate in 10 U.S. states and the company holds an ‘A+’ A.M Best financial strength rating. Its policies and deductibles vary from state to state and Cigna is one of the leading insurance companies to offer their services online as well. One can benefit from PPO(Preferred Provider Organization) health care providers and save quite a significant sum.
These are some of the leading health insurance companies that cater to individuals as well as groups in the USA. Find out more about their policies and coverages and types of plans available by visiting their websites.