Can I Get Better ACA Health Coverage Than My Employer’s Plan?

Many people who get their health insurance through their employers find themselves wondering if they are getting the best possible coverage.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) created health insurance marketplaces, which allow individuals and families to shop for and purchase health insurance plans. These plans can be more affordable than employer-sponsored plans, and they offer a wider range of options.

What to Consider When Comparing ACA Plans to Employer Plans

Here are some factors to consider when comparing ACA plans to your employer’s plan:

Monthly premiums: ACA plans can have lower monthly premiums than employer-sponsored plans, especially if you are not eligible for employer subsidies.
Deductibles: Deductibles are the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance starts to cover your medical expenses. ACA plans can have lower deductibles than employer-sponsored plans.
Copays: Copayments are the fixed amount you pay for certain medical services, such as doctor’s visits or prescription drugs. ACA plans can have lower copayments than employer-sponsored plans.
Coverage: ACA plans must cover a certain set of “essential health benefits,” which include doctor’s visits, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Employer-sponsored plans may not cover all of these benefits.
Provider networks: ACA plans typically have smaller provider networks than employer-sponsored plans. This means that you may have fewer choices of doctors and hospitals if you choose an ACA plan.

How to Find the Right ACA Plan

If you are considering switching from your employer’s health insurance plan to an ACA plan, here are a few steps you can follow:

1. Shop for plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace. You can compare plans and prices at HealthCare.gov or through a licensed health insurance agent or broker.
2. Consider your needs and budget. Think about what type of coverage you need and how much you can afford to spend on monthly premiums.
3. Enroll in a plan. Once you have found a plan that meets your needs and budget, you can enroll through the Health Insurance Marketplace or through a licensed health insurance agent or broker.

The Bottom Line

If you are unhappy with your employer’s health insurance plan, you may want to consider shopping for an ACA plan. ACA plans can be more affordable and offer a wider range of options than employer-sponsored plans. However, it is important to compare plans carefully before making a decision.