Idaho residents have a variety of choices when it is comes to health insurance. Blue Cross Idaho, Regence Blue Shield Idaho Molina, PacificSource and PacificSource are some of the carriers available. Idaho also offers Medicaid, which is a federally funded program that provides low-income individuals with health care. Medicaid provides free or reduced-cost coverage for eligible individuals.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) also has a large impact on the state's residents. A premium tax credit may allow you to lower your monthly premium if you meet certain criteria. A broker can also help you buy an off-market policy. Before you make your final decision, be sure to understand the pros and cons of each option.
Three classes or primary metals are the three types of Idaho's health insurance. Each class has plans with different features. The Silver class is designed for those with moderate to severe health conditions, and the Gold class for those with chronic diseases. A Silver class plan will provide coverage for 70% of your medical bills, while a Golden class plan will provide coverage for 80 percent.
The bronze category is the most expensive, covering up to 60% of your medical costs. However, your monthly premium will be higher than the gold class. As well, copayments will be lower for the silver class.
Idaho's largest population is actually covered by individual-market policies. To put this into perspective, the average premium for an individual health plan in the state is $231 per month. It's a good deal when you compare it to the cost for a benchmark plan. However, it is not an excellent deal if your goal is to get a more comprehensive coverage.
The ACA also created a number of new health insurance regulations. The ACA mandates that insurance companies offer coverage for preexisting conditions and all required health benefits. To pay for medical expenses, you can also use an HSA. Finally, all insurance plans must follow the ACA rules pertaining coverage.
Idaho residents now have access to the Affordable Healthcare Act, which allows them to search for new health insurance plans. The November open enrollment period for ACA starts. You will have a 60-day window during which you can change or switch to your current plan. It makes it much easier for people who don't like the current coverage to switch.
The most important news is that Medicaid can be applied for. This federally funded program offers basic health care and dental services to low income individuals. These benefits include medical visits, immunizations as well as hospitalization. You'll also be able to get vaccines for your kids.
You might want to look into individual health insurance plans depending on your finances and health. Your health situation and whereabouts will determine which plan is best for you. Shopping around will help you to find the best plan. In the unlikely event you lose your coverage, there are special enrollment periods.