When you’re shopping for a new car, you might start with a make you like. Depending on your budget and the features you want, you have to narrow it down to a specific model in the lineup. Health plans have different models, too.
From bronze to platinum, the health plan level – or metal level – you choose affects:
- How much you pay each month (your premium)
- How much you pay when you visit the doctor, fill a prescription or get other care
Plans where you pay less each month typically mean bigger bills when you use care, while paying more each month means less coming out of your wallet for care.
Here are your options where the rubber meets the road:
Best if:
- You expect to visit the doctor six or more times per year.
- You need regular prescriptions.
- You’re comfortable paying more each month and want lower costs when you get care.
What you pay each month (premium):
$$$$$
What you pay for care:
Your health plan pays 90% on average. You pay about 10%.
Best if:
- You expect to visit the doctor six or more times per year.
- You need regular prescriptions.
- You’re comfortable paying more each month and want lower costs when you get care.
What you pay each month (premium):
$$$$
What you pay for care:
Your health plan pays 80% on average. You pay about 20%.
Best if:
- You expect to visit the doctor three or fewer times per year.
- You’d rather pay a little more each month and less when you get care.
What you pay each month (premium):
$$$
What you pay for care:
Your health plan pays 70% on average. You pay about 30%.
Best if:
- You’re pretty healthy and you don’t expect to visit the doctor much.
- You want protection against major illnesses or accidents.
- You’d rather pay less each month and more when you get care.
What you pay each month (premium):
$$
What you pay for care:
Your health plan pays 60% on average. You pay about 40%.
Best if:
- You’re 18 to 29 years old or have what’s called a hardship exemption.
- You’re very healthy and only need protection against major illnesses or accidents.
- You’d rather pay a little each month and higher costs when you get care.
What you pay each month (premium):
$
What you pay for care:
Your health plan pays less than 60% on average. You pay the rest.
Health plans aren’t one-size-fits-all – and finding a great fit for your family is important. Talk to someone who can help match your unique needs with the plan that suits you best.