Why You Might Need More Than Supplemental Insurance

Health insurance is an essential part of financial planning, but finding the right plan can be overwhelming. Supplemental insurance, which covers additional expenses not covered by your primary health insurance, can be a good option for some people. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of supplemental insurance and when you might need more comprehensive coverage.

What is Supplemental Insurance?

Supplemental insurance policies, such as dental, vision, and accident insurance, provide additional coverage for specific medical expenses not covered by your primary health insurance plan. These policies typically have lower premiums than comprehensive health insurance plans but also provide less coverage.

When Supplemental Insurance is Not Enough

While supplemental insurance can be helpful for covering specific expenses, it may not be enough for people with more complex medical needs or those who want comprehensive coverage. For example, supplemental insurance often does not cover major medical expenses such as hospital stays, surgeries, or prescription drugs.

ACA Marketplace Plans vs. Employer-Sponsored Supplemental Plans

If you are ineligible for Medicaid but your employer offers a supplemental insurance plan, you may be wondering if you need to purchase a separate plan through the ACA Marketplace. The ACA Marketplace offers comprehensive health insurance plans that meet minimum essential coverage (MEC) standards. These plans cover a wide range of medical expenses, including major medical expenses.

If your employer’s supplemental plan meets MEC standards, you may not be eligible for subsidies through the ACA Marketplace. However, if your employer’s plan does not meet MEC standards, you may be eligible for subsidies to help you purchase a comprehensive ACA Marketplace plan.

Before You Decide

Before making a decision about whether or not to purchase supplemental insurance, it is important to carefully consider your healthcare needs and budget. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Your health status: If you have any pre-existing conditions or are at high risk for developing health problems, you may need more comprehensive coverage than supplemental insurance can provide.
Your budget: Supplemental insurance premiums are typically lower than comprehensive health insurance premiums, but you must also factor in the cost of out-of-pocket expenses that may not be covered by your supplemental insurance plan.
Your access to other health insurance options: If you have access to affordable comprehensive health insurance through your employer or the ACA Marketplace, you may not need to purchase supplemental insurance.

If you are unsure about whether or not supplemental insurance is right for you, it is a good idea to speak with a licensed insurance agent or consult with a healthcare professional.