Health Insurance Coverage Blues?

Many consumers in the market for health insurance for 2026 were hit with rate increases, decreased tax credits and unexpected costs during the ACA Open enrollment this year.  While we completely recommend and endorse Qualified Health plans that contain the 10 Essential health benefits, we know that is not always the right solution for everyone. With that in mind, we offer a few options that might work for some consumers.  

1.  Open Enrollment continues for Health Coverage through January 15th and many are considering increasing their deductible and out of pocket costs and opting for HSA  (Health Savings Accounts) plans that have lower premiums.  These plans can be combined with a Hospital Confinement or Gap coverage plan.  This year, all Bronze level plans are HSA compliant and combining them with the Hospital/Gap plans to pay for diagnostic tests, outpatient and inpatient services can protect you against unexpected costs. 

1. Do you have HSA or FSA funds left over from another employer?  In some cases you can utilize those funds towards co pays, deductibles and co insurance on an HSA plan and lower your costs.   

1. Do you own a business?  If so, Group Medical coverage may be the option for you to consider.  Group Medical plans can offer the same carriers, (Florida Blue, United, etc) and most have similar HMO and PPO networks as the individual market plans and may be a lower cost option for your company.  If you’d like to discuss these options please reach out to our office and complete the Group Census form.  

1. Are you healthy and can pass underwriting health questions?  A Short Term Medical plan may be the right answer for you!  These plans are now available for 3, 6, 12 and 36 month durations.  They do not have the same essential benefits as a Qualified ACA Health plan but may be an option for healthy individuals who don’t access care frequently and may not need the coverage for a lengthy amount of time.  These plans do not offer any type of tax credit, offer no maternity coverage and some are available without preventive and RX benefits.  Typically these options do have lower premiums and can be combined with Hospital, Accident, or Critical Care Coverages.  

If you have any questions on any of these options, please contact our office and we’ll have a licensed agent who specializes in those coverages assist you.  Be aware and don’t fall prey to those that would also charge additional fees for these benefits.