Health Coverage 101: Back-to-Basics

Have you ever been confused by insurance jargon? What’s a deductible? A copay? When and how do they apply? You’re not alone. According to a national survey by the Department of Education about health literacy, just more than 1 in 10 American adults understand how to navigate medical care and health insurance. Further, a recent Urban Institute survey of individuals eligible for coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance marketplace, found many lack confidence in their understanding of these terms.

Whether you get insurance from your employer, the health insurance exchange or marketplace, or shop on your own, we’re about to enter open enrollment season – a time to make decisions and changes to your coverage. Now is a great time to brush up on the basics.

It’s easier to make good decisions about our coverage when we understand the language being used to communicate options. That’s why we created a back-to-basics video about health insurance that walks through commonly used terms to help you better understand your options and choose the plan that best suits the needs of you and your family.

Insurance coverage is an important part of our health care system, and all patients deserve to have access to the care and treatments they need to live longer, healthier lives.

There is a lot of information to learn and digest, but we’re here to help. Watch our new video to help you learn more about health insurance, and check back for more tips on understanding your coverage.