HMO vs. PPO: What’s the Difference?

by Natalie Stefan

HMOs, PPOs, EPOs… oh my! With so many types of health insurance plans out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Understanding what each plan offers, and the potential drawbacks, can help you make a confident, informed decision about your health coverage. With open enrollment just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to review your options. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the most common plan types with a quick list of pros and cons. HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) Pros: Cons: PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) Pros: Cons: POS (Point of Service) Pros: Cons: EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) Pros: Cons: Finding the right health insurance plan can feel like a challenge, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Health

Tips for Choosing the Right Medicare Plan

by Natalie Stefan

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming at first — but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to start with what matters most to you: your health needs, prescription medications, how often you see your doctor, and your long-term health goals. Ask yourself: Does my current Medicare plan truly support the lifestyle I want? Health Plans of America offers helpful resources and guidance so you can make confident, informed decisions. Below is a quick guide to important factors to consider before enrolling in or changing your Medicare plan: 1. Look for Extra Benefits That Match Your Health Goals Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers hospital and medical services, but it doesn’t include vision, dental, or hearing care. If these

How to Get Health Insurance – Even Without Employer Coverage

by Natalie Stefan

Wondering if you can still get health insurance if your employer doesn’t offer it? Good news: you can — and Health Plan Market is here to help you explore your options. Whether you’re between jobs, self-employed, or your employer simply doesn’t provide coverage, there are several affordable ways to get insured. Here’s a quick breakdown to guide you: 1. Marketplace Health Plans & Premium Tax Credits Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you may qualify for premium tax credits (also known as subsidies) to lower your monthly insurance cost. In some cases, depending on your income, these subsidies can even cover your entire premium. 2. Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) If your household income is below 250% of the federal poverty

The Top Four Ways Health Insurance Can Save You Money

by Natalie Stefan

If you’re wondering whether health insurance is really worth the cost, you’re not alone. With rising premiums and plenty of confusion around coverage, many people question if it’s necessary—especially if they’re relatively healthy. But what most don’t realize is that health insurance doesn’t just protect you in emergencies; it can actually save you money in the long run. Here are the top four ways having health insurance can put cash back in your pocket and give you peace of mind. 1. Discounted Rates on Medical Services One of the biggest advantages of having health insurance is access to negotiated rates with doctors, hospitals, and clinics. Insurance companies work directly with providers to secure lower prices for covered services—sometimes slashing costs

Thinking About Dental Coverage? Here’s What You Need to Know

by Natalie Stefan

If you’re exploring Medicare Advantage plans with dental benefits, it’s important to understand what’s covered—and what’s not—before you book that next cleaning. Most Medicare Advantage plans that include dental coverage offer full benefits for preventive care, including: These services are often covered at 100%, especially if you visit a provider within your plan’s network. While some PPO and HMO plans allow you to see any licensed dentist, you’ll typically pay less out-of-pocket by choosing an in-network provider. What About More Extensive Dental Work? Coverage for restorative procedures—like fillings, extractions, or crowns—varies significantly by plan. Some may cover a portion of the cost, while others might require higher copays or coinsurance. Always review your plan’s summary of benefits to know exactly

Are You Overlooking These Hidden Benefits in Your Healthcare Plan?

by Natalie Stefan

When was the last time you reviewed what your healthcare plan really offers? Most people focus on the basics—doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergency care—but many plans come with additional perks that are often underutilized or completely overlooked. Here are a few valuable benefits that might be included in your health plan, just waiting to be used: Health Coaching Whether you’re working on lowering your cholesterol, managing a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, or simply trying to lose weight, health coaching can be a game-changer. These one-on-one sessions with wellness professionals provide personalized support to help you stay on track and reach your goals. 24/7 Nurse Hotline Health concerns don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why many providers offer around-the-clock