Navigating the world of health insurance can feel complex and overwhelming, especially for individuals and families seeking coverage through the health insurance marketplace. With a wide array of plans available, and many unfamiliar terms involved, understanding how health plans under the Affordable Care Act work is critical to making confident and informed decisions.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of how health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act are structured, what coverage they include, how cost-sharing works, and what to expect in terms of premiums and expenses. Whether you’re applying for the first time or considering switching plans during open enrollment, this guide will help clarify the foundational elements of ACA health insurance.
How the Affordable Care Act Shapes Health Coverage
The Affordable Care Act, also referred to as the ACA or Obamacare, was signed into law to improve access to health insurance across the United States. One of its primary goals is to ensure that all Americans can obtain quality coverage, regardless of income or pre-existing conditions. As part of this legislation, the government created the health insurance marketplace, where individuals can shop for plans, compare coverage, and determine whether they qualify for subsidies or cost-sharing reductions.
A significant component of the ACA is that all health insurance plans sold through the marketplace must provide coverage for ten essential health benefits. These benefits are standard across all plan types, ensuring a minimum level of care regardless of which plan you choose. These include:
- Hospitalization
- Outpatient (ambulatory) care
- Prescription drugs
- Laboratory services
- Emergency services
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Maternity and newborn care
- Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices
- Preventive and wellness services
- Pediatric services, including dental and vision care
These ten essential benefits ensure that consumers are not left vulnerable in the event of a major illness or injury, and they create a uniform level of coverage for everyone shopping through the health insurance marketplace.
The Four Tiers of ACA Health Plans
While all plans must cover the same essential services, they differ in terms of how the costs are shared between the insurance provider and the individual. The ACA categorizes plans into four metal tiers: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. These categories do not reflect the quality of care but instead indicate the percentage of medical costs covered by the insurer on average.
Each level presents a trade-off between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding these tiers helps consumers make informed choices based on their health needs and financial situation.
Bronze Plan: Lower Premiums, Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs
The bronze plan is designed for people who want to minimize their monthly insurance costs and do not expect to use medical services frequently. On average, bronze plans cover 60 percent of a person’s medical costs, while the individual is responsible for the remaining 40 percent through deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
This plan typically features the lowest monthly premium among the four tiers, making it appealing to young, healthy individuals or those without chronic medical conditions. However, the trade-off is significant. Bronze plans have higher deductibles and higher cost-sharing when services are needed.
For example, if someone with a bronze plan undergoes a medical procedure that costs $8,000, they may be responsible for $3,200 of that cost, assuming they have already met their deductible. It’s a plan that works best for those who are comfortable paying more at the point of care in exchange for lower monthly payments.
Silver Plan: Moderate Premiums with Balance in Coverage
The silver plan strikes a balance between monthly cost and coverage. On average, the insurer pays 70 percent of medical costs, and the individual pays the remaining 30 percent. Premiums are higher than those of bronze plans but lower than gold and platinum options.
One of the main advantages of the silver plan is that it qualifies for cost-sharing reductions if your income falls within a certain range. These reductions help lower deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, making healthcare more affordable for middle and lower-income individuals and families.
Because of this additional financial assistance, the silver plan is often recommended for people with moderate healthcare needs who also want protection from high out-of-pocket expenses. It is also the only tier that offers these reductions, so people eligible for them must choose a silver plan to receive the benefit.
Gold Plan: Higher Premiums, Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs
The gold plan is a suitable option for those who expect to use healthcare services regularly. It covers around 80 percent of total medical expenses, leaving the individual responsible for about 20 percent. Monthly premiums for gold plans are significantly higher than bronze or silver plans, but the reduced cost at the time of service provides peace of mind for those managing chronic conditions or undergoing frequent treatments.
Because gold plans come with lower deductibles and lower cost-sharing, they can be a smart long-term financial choice for people who require ongoing medical attention or expensive prescriptions. The consistent access to care and reduced unpredictability in costs make this tier appealing despite the higher monthly premium.
Platinum Plan: Highest Coverage with the Highest Premiums
At the top of the tier system is the platinum plan, which covers 90 percent of healthcare costs on average, leaving the policyholder with only 10 percent of the expenses. While the monthly premium is the highest among the four tiers, this plan offers the greatest level of cost protection when medical services are needed.
Platinum plans are ideal for individuals with significant medical needs who want to avoid large out-of-pocket costs. This includes people with chronic illnesses, multiple prescriptions, or the need for frequent specialized care. The higher upfront premium is offset by the minimal cost-sharing during treatment, making this plan a preferred option for those seeking comprehensive coverage and financial security.
Catastrophic Health Insurance: A Safety Net for the Young and Low-Income
In addition to the four main categories, the ACA also includes a special type of plan known as catastrophic health insurance. This plan is only available to individuals under 30 years old or those who qualify for a hardship exemption. It is designed as a safety net for people who cannot afford standard plans or who want minimal monthly payments but still need protection against high medical costs from serious illness or injury.
Catastrophic plans feature very low monthly premiums but come with high deductibles. In most cases, individuals must pay for all healthcare services out-of-pocket until they reach the deductible, which is often several thousand dollars. Once that threshold is met, the plan begins to cover all essential health benefits.
These plans are not intended for regular doctor visits, ongoing treatments, or daily medications. Instead, they are best suited for people who rarely seek medical care and want to be protected financially in case of a major event like a hospitalization or accident.
It is important to note that while catastrophic plans offer the same essential health benefits as other ACA plans, they do not qualify for subsidies or cost-sharing reductions, and their usage is limited to specific demographics and income brackets.
Understanding Health Insurance Costs
When evaluating ACA health plans, it is important to understand the various types of costs involved. These costs can significantly impact the total amount you spend on healthcare throughout the year, even if your monthly premium seems manageable.
- A premium is the fixed monthly amount you pay to maintain your insurance policy, regardless of whether you use any services that month.
- A deductible is the amount you must pay for covered medical services before your insurance plan begins to pay. For example, if your deductible is $1,500, you must pay that amount before the insurer starts sharing costs.
- A copayment is a fixed dollar amount you pay for a specific healthcare service. For example, you might pay $20 for a primary care visit or $10 for a prescription.
- Coinsurance is the percentage of costs you are required to pay after meeting your deductible. For instance, if your coinsurance is 20 percent and your medical bill is $1,000, you would pay $200 and your insurer would cover the remaining $800.
- Out-of-pocket costs include all expenses you are responsible for paying yourself, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Each plan has an out-of-pocket maximum, which caps how much you must pay in a given year.
Understanding how these costs interact is key to choosing a plan that makes financial sense based on your expected healthcare needs. A lower premium plan might be appealing upfront but could cost more in the long run if you end up using many medical services.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plan
Selecting the right health insurance plan involves more than comparing monthly premiums. It’s important to consider your healthcare habits, medical history, and financial situation. Here are a few critical factors to evaluate:
- Anticipated healthcare usage: How often do you visit the doctor, refill prescriptions, or see specialists?
- Budget for monthly premiums versus out-of-pocket costs: Would you prefer to pay more each month to minimize unexpected expenses?
- Network of providers: Are your current doctors, hospitals, and specialists covered by the plan’s network?
- Eligibility for subsidies or cost-sharing reductions: Do your income and household size qualify you for financial assistance?
Taking time to assess these factors will help ensure that the plan you select meets both your medical and financial needs throughout the coverage year.
Comparing and Evaluating Health Insurance Plans Under the Affordable Care Act
Once you understand the basic structure of health insurance plans offered through the Affordable Care Act, the next step is evaluating your options to choose the most suitable plan for your health and financial needs. With multiple tiers available and a wide range of costs involved, the process of comparing plans can be confusing without a clear strategy.
Assess the key variables when selecting a plan through the health insurance marketplace. From calculating total costs and evaluating coverage to considering provider networks and subsidy eligibility, understanding the details will lead to better decision-making during the enrollment process.
Importance of Personalized Plan Selection
While all plans within the ACA framework provide coverage for essential health services, not all plans are ideal for every individual. A young adult who rarely visits the doctor will not need the same level of coverage as someone managing a chronic condition that requires frequent treatment.
This is why a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to choosing health insurance. It is essential to align the plan’s cost structure, network offerings, and benefits with your expected medical usage and your ability to manage out-of-pocket expenses.
Assessing Monthly Premiums and Total Annual Costs
One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing a plan solely based on the monthly premium. While a lower premium may seem more affordable at first glance, it often comes with higher deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, which could lead to greater costs if you use more medical services than expected.
To accurately assess the affordability of a plan, you need to calculate the total annual cost. This includes:
- The total amount of premiums you’ll pay throughout the year
- Your deductible, or the amount you’ll need to pay before insurance coverage begins
- Average out-of-pocket costs based on your medical usage
- Potential emergency or unexpected medical expenses
For example, a bronze plan may have a low monthly premium but a $6,500 deductible. If you anticipate needing surgery or several specialist visits, the cumulative costs may exceed what you would have paid under a gold or silver plan with higher premiums but lower deductibles and coinsurance.
Calculating your total costs involves more than just estimating based on plan documents. It requires a realistic look at your health needs, how frequently you use medical services, and the probability of emergencies. Even for healthy individuals, an accident or sudden illness could result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses under a lower-tier plan.
Understanding Deductibles and Out-of-Pocket Maximums
Every ACA health plan has a deductible, which is the amount you must pay before your plan starts to cover certain services. High-deductible plans like those in the bronze tier may not begin cost-sharing until thousands of dollars have been paid out-of-pocket.
In addition to the deductible, plans also set an out-of-pocket maximum. This is the most you would have to pay in a given year for covered healthcare services. Once this limit is reached, the insurer pays 100 percent of covered services for the remainder of the year.
When comparing plans, review not only the deductible but also the out-of-pocket maximum. A plan with a slightly higher premium but a lower out-of-pocket maximum could provide significant financial relief if you end up needing extensive care.
Also note that the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum typically reset annually. Be mindful of this when planning for future medical expenses, especially if you’re managing ongoing treatments or expecting a major procedure.
Evaluating Coinsurance and Copayment Structures
After meeting the deductible, most ACA plans require some form of cost-sharing through coinsurance or copayments. Coinsurance is a percentage of the cost of a covered service that you pay after the deductible is met, while a copayment is a fixed fee paid at the time of service.
For example, a plan might require you to pay 20 percent of the cost of a diagnostic test after the deductible is satisfied. Another plan might require a $40 copayment for a specialist visit. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you require frequent care.
As you compare plans, consider how often you typically visit doctors, fill prescriptions, or undergo tests. A plan with higher premiums but lower copayments or coinsurance may end up saving you money if you require multiple services throughout the year.
Consideration of Health Savings Accounts
Some high-deductible health plans qualify for a Health Savings Account, which allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses. If you’re considering a bronze plan or a catastrophic plan and want to offset high out-of-pocket costs, a Health Savings Account may provide financial flexibility.
These accounts are beneficial for people who do not require frequent care but want to set aside funds for emergencies. Unlike flexible spending accounts, the funds in a Health Savings Account roll over from year to year, making it a useful long-term strategy for managing healthcare expenses.
Comparing Provider Networks and Covered Services
Beyond cost, one of the most important considerations when choosing a health insurance plan is the provider network. Each plan has a network of doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and specialists with whom it has negotiated rates. Using providers within the network ensures you receive the maximum benefit from your insurance.
If you choose a plan with a narrow network and your preferred doctor or hospital is not included, you may have to pay full price for those services or travel to access in-network care. This can result in additional inconvenience and expense.
Always review the provider directory associated with each plan you are considering. If you already have relationships with healthcare providers, check whether they are in-network. If not, you may want to choose a plan that includes your preferred providers, even if the premium is slightly higher.
Additionally, review covered services carefully. While all ACA plans cover the ten essential benefits, some plans may offer additional services like telehealth access, wellness programs, or alternative therapies. These extras can add value depending on your lifestyle and health goals.
Evaluating Prescription Drug Coverage
Prescription drug coverage can vary significantly between plans. If you regularly take medication, it’s essential to review the plan’s drug formulary, which is the list of covered medications and the tier level each drug falls into.
Many plans categorize medications into tiers that determine the cost to the patient. Generic drugs are usually on the lowest tier with the lowest copayment, while brand-name and specialty drugs are placed on higher tiers with increased costs.
Review the costs for your current medications under each plan you are considering. Some drugs may require prior authorization or have quantity limits, which could affect how easily you can obtain them. If your medication is not listed or is priced on a higher tier, it could significantly impact your annual healthcare expenses.
Eligibility for Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions
One of the most valuable features of the health insurance marketplace is the financial assistance available to eligible individuals and families. If your income falls within a certain range, you may qualify for a premium tax credit that reduces your monthly premium.
Additionally, if your income is within a lower bracket, you may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions, which reduce your out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. However, these reductions are only available with silver plans, so it’s important to consider this when evaluating your options.
To determine your eligibility, you will need to provide income and household information when applying through the marketplace. The system will calculate the assistance you qualify for and apply it directly to the plans displayed during your comparison.
Failing to accurately report your income can result in underestimating or overestimating your eligibility, which may lead to tax implications later on. Make sure to review your income documentation and any updates to your financial situation before enrolling.
Planning for Unpredictable Health Needs
One of the challenges of choosing a health insurance plan is accounting for the unknown. Even if you are healthy now, an accident or unexpected diagnosis can lead to significant healthcare costs. While a bronze or catastrophic plan may appear cost-effective in the short term, they can leave you exposed to substantial out-of-pocket expenses in emergency situations.
Consider whether you have savings available to cover a high deductible if necessary. If not, a plan with a slightly higher monthly premium but lower out-of-pocket maximum might be a safer choice. Planning for emergencies as well as routine care helps ensure that you are protected regardless of what the year brings.
Reviewing Enrollment Periods and Making Timely Changes
The health insurance marketplace has designated open enrollment periods during which you can apply for a new plan or make changes to your existing coverage. Outside of open enrollment, you can only make changes if you qualify for a special enrollment period due to life events such as marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage.
Staying aware of enrollment deadlines ensures that you do not miss your opportunity to enroll in or switch plans. Waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed decisions or missed savings. It’s also wise to periodically review your plan details throughout the year to ensure that your needs are still being met and to make adjustments during the next enrollment period if necessary.
How to Use Your ACA Health Insurance Plan Effectively
After choosing and enrolling in a health insurance plan through the Affordable Care Act marketplace, the next step is learning how to use your coverage effectively. While understanding the plan’s structure and comparing costs is essential, knowing how to access services, manage paperwork, and minimize expenses throughout the year is equally important.
Many people overlook the practical side of health insurance after they enroll, only to encounter unexpected costs or coverage issues later. This article covers key practices for making the most of your ACA plan, from scheduling preventive care and managing prescriptions to understanding billing and resolving disputes.
Setting Up Access and Understanding Your ID Card
Once your enrollment is finalized, you will receive a health insurance ID card either by mail or digitally. This card includes important information such as your member ID number, group number, plan name, and the insurance company’s contact details. Carrying this card or keeping a copy readily accessible is important, especially when visiting new healthcare providers or filling prescriptions.
You should also register for an online account through your insurance company’s website. Most insurers offer member portals that allow you to:
- View your benefits and coverage summary
- Check the status of claims and billing statements
- Find in-network doctors and facilities
- Download documents such as Explanation of Benefits (EOBs)
- Request replacement ID cards or print temporary ones
Registering your account early helps you monitor your healthcare usage and manage your plan more efficiently throughout the year.
Scheduling and Maximizing Preventive Care
All health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act are required to cover a range of preventive services at no additional cost to you. This includes screenings, immunizations, and counseling services when received from in-network providers.
Common preventive services include:
- Annual wellness exams
- Blood pressure and cholesterol screenings
- Mammograms and Pap smears for women
- Colon cancer screenings
- Vaccinations, including flu shots and childhood immunizations
- Depression screenings and behavioral health evaluations
These services are designed to catch health issues early or prevent them altogether, which can save you time, money, and stress later. To get the full benefit, make sure that any preventive care appointment is scheduled with an in-network provider and clearly categorized as preventive rather than diagnostic.
If a test or visit shifts from preventive to diagnostic—for example, if additional testing is needed after a screening—then it may result in charges. Ask your doctor’s office how the visit will be billed ahead of time if you’re unsure.
Managing Referrals and Specialist Appointments
Some health plans require a referral from your primary care physician before you can see a specialist. This is especially common in Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans, which tend to have stricter network rules.
Before making an appointment with a specialist, contact your insurance provider or check your plan’s documentation to determine whether a referral is necessary. Failing to get proper authorization may lead to denied claims or full responsibility for the cost. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans generally do not require referrals, but it’s still important to confirm that the specialist is within the plan’s network to avoid unexpected charges.
Using Telehealth Services
Many ACA health insurance plans now include coverage for telehealth, also known as virtual care. This service allows patients to consult with doctors, mental health professionals, and specialists over video or phone, often at a lower cost than in-person visits.
Telehealth can be especially useful for:
- Routine check-ins for chronic conditions
- Mental health counseling
- Prescription renewals
- Initial assessments before in-person care is needed
Check whether your plan includes telehealth services and which platforms are supported. Some plans may only cover telehealth visits through designated providers or require you to use the insurer’s preferred app.
Filling and Managing Prescription Medications
Prescription drug coverage is included in all ACA-compliant plans, but each plan uses its own drug formulary to categorize and price medications. A formulary is a list of covered drugs, divided into tiers based on cost. Typically:
- Tier 1 includes generic medications at the lowest cost
- Tier 2 includes preferred brand-name drugs
- Tier 3 and above include non-preferred or specialty medications, which may be more expensive
When your doctor prescribes medication, ask if a generic equivalent is available, as this can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. You can also consult your insurer’s formulary to confirm whether a prescribed medication is covered and what your copayment will be.
Many plans offer mail-order pharmacy options that allow you to receive a 90-day supply of maintenance medications at a lower cost. Signing up for this service can also ensure consistency if you take medications regularly. If your medication is not covered or is placed on a high-cost tier, your doctor may be able to submit a prior authorization request or appeal to have the drug covered at a lower cost.
Understanding Explanation of Benefits (EOBs)
Each time you receive healthcare services that are billed to your insurance, you’ll receive a document called an Explanation of Benefits. This is not a bill, but it details how your claim was processed, including:
- The total amount charged by the provider
- The amount your insurance paid
- Your deductible, copay, or coinsurance responsibility
- Any non-covered services
Review your EOBs carefully. They can help you verify that claims were submitted correctly and alert you to potential billing issues. If something looks incorrect—for example, if a preventive service was billed as diagnostic—contact your insurance company to dispute the claim or request a correction.
Handling Unexpected Medical Bills
Even with health insurance, surprise medical bills can occur. These usually happen when you receive services from an out-of-network provider without realizing it, such as in emergency situations or during hospitalization when an out-of-network anesthesiologist or radiologist is involved.
To avoid surprises:
- Always confirm that a provider is in-network before scheduling appointments
- Ask if all lab work and imaging will be sent to in-network facilities
- If you receive emergency care, contact your insurer afterward to ensure the charges are being processed under emergency coverage rules
If you receive an unexpected bill, you can:
- Request a detailed itemized bill to verify charges
- Contact your insurer to confirm how the claim was processed
- Negotiate with the provider or request financial assistance
- File an appeal if the bill includes denied services that should have been covered
Understanding your rights under the No Surprises Act may also help you contest charges for out-of-network services during emergencies or when no in-network providers were available.
Tracking Your Healthcare Spending
Keeping track of how much you’ve spent on healthcare during the year helps you manage your budget and monitor your progress toward reaching your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Your insurer’s online portal should include a running total of:
- Deductible paid so far
- Copayments and coinsurance costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses for the year
Monitoring this data can help you plan the timing of elective procedures or tests. For instance, if you’ve already met your deductible and are close to your out-of-pocket maximum, you may want to schedule additional needed care within the same year to reduce future costs. Additionally, keeping your own records of payments and receipts will support you in case of billing disputes or when filing tax documents, particularly if you’re itemizing medical expenses.
Communicating With Your Insurance Provider
Whenever you have questions or issues with your plan, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider’s customer service. Whether it’s to clarify a bill, check coverage for a procedure, or verify network participation, your insurer is the best source of accurate, personalized information.
Prepare before calling by having the following ready:
- Your insurance ID number
- Details about the service or bill in question
- The provider’s name and date of service
- Any supporting documentation you’ve received
Keep a record of the conversation, including the representative’s name, the date and time of the call, and a summary of the guidance given. If a solution is promised, ask for it in writing or via email.
Appealing Denied Claims
Occasionally, health insurance companies may deny a claim for services that you believe should be covered. Common reasons include lack of prior authorization, services deemed not medically necessary, or coding errors by the provider.
If a claim is denied:
- Review the denial notice carefully to understand the reason
- Contact the insurer for clarification or to resolve potential errors
- If necessary, file a formal appeal using the instructions provided in your denial notice
The ACA requires insurers to offer both internal and external review processes. During internal review, the insurance company reevaluates its decision. If that fails, you may request an independent external review by a third-party organization. Submit any supporting documentation from your doctor that explains why the service was necessary. Timely follow-up is crucial, as most plans have strict deadlines for filing appeals.
Coordinating Benefits If You Have Multiple Plans
If you are covered by more than one health insurance plan—such as through a spouse’s employer and the health insurance marketplace—you’ll need to coordinate benefits between the two plans. One plan is considered primary, and the other is secondary.
The primary plan pays first for covered services, and the secondary plan may pay some or all of the remaining balance. It’s essential to notify both insurers about your dual coverage status to avoid claim delays or denials.
You should also inform your healthcare providers so they can bill the plans in the correct order. Miscommunication between plans and providers can lead to billing complications that take time and effort to resolve.
Staying Informed About Plan Changes
Health insurance plans can change their networks, drug formularies, cost structures, and benefits from year to year. It is important to review any updates your insurer sends, especially during the annual open enrollment period.
Changes that could affect your care or costs include:
- Increases in monthly premiums or deductibles
- Changes in provider networks
- Removal of specific drugs from the formulary
- Adjustments to copayment and coinsurance rates
Even if your plan is automatically renewed, reviewing these changes ensures that it still meets your needs. If not, you’ll have an opportunity to switch plans during open enrollment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right health insurance plan under the Affordable Care Act involves more than selecting a plan based solely on premium costs. It requires a thoughtful analysis of your healthcare needs, financial situation, and long-term expectations. By understanding how ACA plans are structured through the bronze, silver, gold, and platinum tiers, you gain insight into how costs are shared and how to choose a plan that aligns with your usage patterns.
For those seeking basic protection and low monthly premiums, the bronze and catastrophic plans offer affordable entry points, though with higher out-of-pocket costs when care is needed. Silver plans provide a balanced approach and offer cost-sharing reductions to eligible individuals, making them a popular and practical choice. Gold and platinum plans, while more expensive on a monthly basis, deliver the lowest out-of-pocket expenses and are best suited for individuals or families who anticipate frequent or ongoing care.
Comparing plans effectively means looking beyond just premiums. Evaluating the total cost of coverage, deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, along with provider networks and prescription drug formularies can help you avoid surprises and ensure access to the care you trust. Understanding the impact of subsidies and financial assistance can further reduce costs and make comprehensive care more attainable.
Once enrolled, using your plan wisely is equally important. From scheduling preventive services and managing prescriptions to interpreting billing statements and handling denied claims, being proactive and informed helps you maximize the value of your coverage. Knowing your rights, keeping track of expenses, and communicating with your insurer allows you to take full advantage of the protections and benefits the ACA provides.
In a constantly evolving healthcare environment, staying informed about your plan, reviewing annual changes, and reassessing your needs ensures that you maintain the right level of coverage year after year. With the tools and knowledge provided throughout this series, you’re better equipped to navigate the ACA marketplace with confidence and secure a plan that supports your health and financial well-being.