What is health insurance?

Health insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company that helps pay for your medical expenses. If you have health insurance, you typically pay a monthly premium to the insurance company. In return, the insurance company will pay for a portion of your medical expenses, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.

What types of health insurance plans are available?

There are many different types of health insurance plans available, including: Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): HMO plans typically have lower premiums than other types of plans, but they also have more restrictions. For example, you must typically see a doctor within the HMO's network of providers, and you may need to get a referral from your primary care physician before seeing a specialist. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): PPO plans offer more flexibility than HMO plans, but they also have higher premiums. With a PPO plan, you can see any doctor you want, but you will pay more if you see a doctor who is not in the plan's network. Point-of-Service (POS): POS plans are a hybrid of HMO and PPO plans. With a POS plan, you typically pay less if you see a doctor within the plan's network, but you can still see any doctor you want if you are willing to pay more. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): EPO plans are similar to HMO plans, but they do not allow you to see doctors who are not in the plan's network. High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP): HDHPs have lower monthly premiums than other types of plans, but they have higher deductibles. This means that you will have to pay more out of pocket for your medical expenses before the insurance company starts paying. HDHPs are often paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA), which is a tax-advantaged savings account that you can use to pay for qualified medical expenses.

How do I choose the right health insurance plan for me?

When choosing a health insurance plan, it is important to consider the following factors: Your budget: How much can you afford to pay for monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs? Your health: Do you have any chronic health conditions? Do you take any prescription drugs? Your needs: Do you need to see a specialist regularly? Do you prefer to see doctors within a certain network Once you have considered these factors, you can start comparing health insurance plans. You can get quotes from multiple insurance companies to compare rates and coverage options. You can also use the Health Insurance Marketplace to compare plans and find coverage that fits your budget and needs.

How do I enroll in health insurance?

Once you have chosen a health insurance plan, you can enroll online, by phone, or by mail. You will need to provide your personal information, such as your name, address, and date of birth. You will also need to provide information about your dependents if you have any.

When can I enroll in health insurance?

You can enroll in health insurance during Open Enrollment, which is typically held from November 1 to December 15. You can also enroll in health insurance if you have a Qualifying Life Event, such as losing your job, getting married, or having a child.

CMS has awarded Caitlin Witte the Marketplace Circle of
Champions Recognition for 2026

After I actively and accurately helped 50 or more consumers enroll in Marketplace coverage.

It’s great to help consumers enroll in health coverage and to be a #MarketplaceChampion.

Caitlin Witte Marketplace Circle of Champions Recognition for 2026

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CMS has awarded Caitlin Witte the Marketplace Circle of Champions Recognition for 2026

CMS has awarded Caitlin Witte the Marketplace Circle of
Champions Recognition for 2026