Personal Health Insurance Types

ACA (Affordable Care Act) 

• Bronze Plans

• Silver Plans

• Gold Plans

• Platinum Plans

• Catastrophic Plans (for those under 30 or with a hardship exemption)

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

Offers a network of healthcare providers but allows individuals to seek care outside the network, usually at a higher cost.

No referral required to see a specialist.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

Requires individuals to choose a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates their care.

Generally requires referrals from the PCP to see specialists.

Typically has lower out-of-pocket costs but limited provider network.

High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)

Typically paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) for tax advantages.

Higher deductibles but lower premiums.

Eligible for individuals who want to save on premiums and can manage higher out-of-pocket costs.

Point of Service (POS)

Combines elements of HMO and PPO plans.

Requires individuals to choose a primary care physician but allows out-of-network care at a higher cost.

Short-Term Health Insurance

Provides temporary coverage, often used during transitions or gaps in coverage.

Typically offers limited benefits and may not cover pre-existing conditions.

Indemnity Health Insurance

Offers more freedom in choosing healthcare providers but often comes with higher out-of-pocket costs.

Individuals pay for services upfront and then seek reimbursement from the insurance company.