These usually limit coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract with the HMO and won't cover out-of-network care except in an emergency. They may require you to live or work in its service area to be eligible for coverage. They often focus on prevention and wellness.

A managed care plan where services are covered only if you use doctors, specialists, or hospitals in the plan's network (except in an emergency).

A health plan that lets you use doctors, hospitals and providers without a referral. You pay less for using in-network providers but pay more for outside-network providers. PPO premiums are commonly higher than HMOs and EPOs.

These plans (HMOs, EPOs, PPOs) are offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace created by the Affordable Care Act. Individuals can purchase ACA plans during the annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) or a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if they qualify. These plans are often subsidized by the government, making them more affordable for individuals with lower incomes. ACA Plans must adhere to certain regulations set forth by the Affordable Care Act, such as providing essential health benefits and coverage for pre-existing conditions. They are categorized into different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) based on the level of coverage and cost-sharing. ACA Plans have standardized pricing based on factors like age and location, with additional subsidies available to further reduce costs for eligible individuals. Employers with a certain number of employees are required to offer ACA-compliant health insurance or face penalties.

These plans are offered through private insurance companies rather than through the government, typically PPOs. Individuals can purchase Private Medical Plans directly from insurance companies or through brokers. They are not subsidized by the government, meaning individuals pay the full premium amount. These Short-Term Medical (STM) Plans may offer a wider range of coverage options, including different networks of healthcare providers. They often provide more flexibility in terms of coverage levels and benefits, allowing individuals to choose plans that suit their specific needs. Premiums for STMs may vary based on factors such as age, location, and health status. They do have underwriting exclusions and/or limitations on pre-existing conditions. Employers can also offer STMs to their employees as part of a group health insurance policy.

Health Share is NOT the same as traditional health insurance, although they operate quite similarly. They are run by non-profit organizations that are not insurance companies, thus, the program is not regulated as insurance and typically do not have network restrictions. These plans are designed for larger unexpected medical needs, which makes them more affordable. You join their "community" as a "member" based on similar beliefs or ideologies with the usual restrictions or waiting periods for pre-existing conditions. Here are some terms commonly found in health insurance plans that are different in health share plans, respectively: a. insured = member; b. monthly premium = monthly contribution; c. deductible = member responsibility amount (MRA); d. covered/coverage = share/sharing; e. max out-of-pocket (MOOP) = additional member responsibility amount (AMRA); f. explanation of benefits (EOB) = explanation of sharing (EOS); etc.

These plans, for a small premium, help "fill gaps" by covering out-of-pocket medical costs not covered by your primary health insurance or plan. The benefits are payable to you upon a medical cost has incurred and a claim has been submitted. There are commonly 4 specific types of fixed indemnity coverages, or "GAP" plans: Accident, Cancer, Critical Illness, Hospital. They have no deductibles, nor a referral or network requirement.