US health insurance is notoriously complicated. Figuring out which company and plan to choose is one of the important financial decisions you’ll make, and there are hundreds of options to choose from. So which health insurance companies are the best? Below we’ve listed out the picks for “best health insurance” in the USA, organized by what you might be looking for:
Our 2024 Top Picks:
- Best Overal: Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) offers the largest network of physicians and hospitals, nationwide coverage, and ease of mind. BCBS plans are highly rated across the board, with the majority of doctors and hospitals participating in their networks (in most regions). This means you get to choose quality providers without the worry of going out-of-network.
- Best for Quality: Kaiser Permanente offers an integrated delivery system, meaning your care is coordinated and quality is rated high. Kaiser Permanente is unlike traditional insurance in that it operates its own hospitals, clinics, and doctors. This allows your doctors to work together and have a more complete picture of your health history.
- Best for Wellness: If you’re like us, you really value your health and wellness. Oscar encourages users to be proactive with their health through preventive care and wellness programs. Oscar plans offer great technology for easy insurance management. They also place a strong emphasis on preventative care, offering services like telehealth (video doctor visits) and fitness programs.
- Fast Same-Day Services: Aetna CVS Health offers amazing convenience with walk-in clinics at CVS pharmacies. If you’re looking for easy, same day care, Aetna CVS Health might be the open choice for you. Aetna has teamed up with CVS pharmacies, a large retail pharmacy chain, to offer urgent care at convenient CVS locations. This option is great for those minor illnesses or injuries that need same day attention.
Remember, “best” is subjective. The right plan for you will all depend on your personal needs. Here are some factors to consider before you decide:
- Your Budget: Some health plans are more affordable than others. Out of pocket expenses like a deductible, copays, and coinsurance all play a role in the cost of plans. Make sure to compare costs before you decide on a plan. Deductibles and copays can vary, so choose what you can afford comfortably.
- Network: A plan’s in network coverage determines which doctor’s and hospitals you can visit without paying out of network expenses. Before you enroll in a plan, make sure you can visit your primary care doctor, and any specialist you may need, without leaving your plan’s network.
- Your Coverage Needs: Check if your plan covers the prescriptions, preventive care, and specialist care you and your family may need. Your current state of health and any medical care you anticipate needing in the near future should play a large role in your coverage decision.
- Your Location: Plans and networks vary by zip code. Before you decide on a plan, make sure it is available in your area. You can search for plans in your county at healthcare.gov.
Beyond the Big Names:
BCBS, Kaiser Permanente, and other major players are big names to watch on a national level, but don’t count out regional insurers through the ACA marketplace. Many of these insurers offer competitive rates and customizable coverage. While they lack the exposure of companies like United Concordia, they offer beneficial benefits and broader network availability in certain areas.
Unbiased Resources:
- Healthcare.gov: An official US government site for comparing plans, determining subsidy eligibility, and enrolling in coverage. Healthcare.gov is your best source for unbiased information on health insurance plans. They feature a plan comparison tool and can assist you in finding if you qualify for subsidies to help cover your monthly premiums.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC): The NAIC is a valuable source of information and resources for consumers. NAIC is a non-profit that acts on behalf of state insurance regulators. Their website includes informative resources and consumer guides regarding health insurance to assist in your decision making process. They offer helpful resources and
Making the Smart Choice:
Always invest time in researching and comparing plans. It may even be beneficial to reach out to insurance agents or brokers for a more personalized approach. With the right consideration and the help of this guide, you will be more than prepared to choose the health insurance that best protects your health and financial investments.