Health insurance is a form of medical coverage that helps you pay for the costs of treating a health condition. It also gives you access to participating health care providers, see page to get these services. You can buy coverage directly from an insurance company or through a broker.

 

There are many different types of health plans, depending on the type of health care you need. Some are subject to state and federal regulations. In addition, there are some plans that are not regulated by any government entity. For example, some religious organizations provide health care sharing ministries. These are not official types of health plans, but can still be helpful to people who need medical care.

 

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has changed the way that health plans are sold. Plans that are effective after January 2014 must be compliant with the ACA. Those plans are sold in exchanges and are not offered in the individual market.

 

The ACA limits the maximum amount that a person can spend out-of-pocket on health services. These limits will increase to $7,050 in 2022, and $14,100 in 2022. However, these amounts will not apply to services that are performed by non-network providers.

 

Health insurance plans are organized by the level of benefits that they offer. A bronze plan has the least benefits, while a platinum plan has the most. Each plan has a deductible, a copayment, and a premium. This determines how much you'll pay for the insurance, which can vary from one person to the next. Depending on your needs, you might find it useful to compare deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and other aspects of a plan before you purchase it.

 

If you have an individual or family health plan, you're subject to state and federal regulations. Many states have passed laws that require employers to provide some form of health insurance, read more about this subject here at no cost. Self-funded plans are not required to cover essential health benefits. Similarly, Medicaid is a joint federal/state safety-net program, and is available to those who qualify. Additionally, you may be eligible for supplemental insurance, such as Medigap plus Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage. 

 

Generally, most people choose a health insurance plan based on the cost and the benefits that are offered. However, in some cases, an employer might cover all or part of the plan's premium. An employee might contribute through co-insurance, which is a percentage of the cost of the covered services.

 

As of 2010, there are a number of different types of health plans. Generally, they fall into two categories: fee-for-service and managed care. Fee-for-service plans typically involve a relationship between you and your primary care physician. Managed care plans are agreements between you and the health plan's network of providers. They also manage the quality of care that you receive and the rules for obtaining and using the services.

 

There are other types of health plans, including supplementary insurance, and short-term health insurance. Those plans only last for a limited period of time and do not cover comprehensive coverage.
Check out this post that has expounded on the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance.