How to choose an individual & family health plan

It’s important to find out if your doctors and other health practitioners are in a plan’s network before choosing that plan. You’ll typically pay quite a bit more if you visit an out-of-network provider.

Also check to see if any prescription medication you regularly take is on the plan's drug list, also known as the formulary.

Health plan companies, including UCare, typically offer care through broad and focused provider networks. A broad network gives you access to a wide variety of care systems and providers while a focused network requires you to see a more limited number of providers in exchange for lower premiums.

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Review your health conditions to see what care you might need. If you're buying coverage for members of your family, be sure to consider these questions for them, too.

• Do you anticipate any tests, procedures or other major health expenses in the coming year?
• Do you have a chronic health condition that you manage with medication and/or with regular doctor visits?

Review your budget to see how much you can afford for premiums and expected medical care. This will help you determine which plan type and coverage level to choose.

• Are you taking advantage of subsidies on MNsure to decrease your monthly premium? The average household saves more than $500 each month in premiums, so check mnsure.org to see if you qualify.
• Is it easier on your budget to have lower monthly premiums and pay more out of pocket when you receive care, or have higher monthly premiums in exchange for lower costs when you receive care?
• Could you afford the out-of-pocket maximum if you experience unexpected medical needs?
• Are you comfortable with having a smaller provider network in exchange for lower premiums?
• Do you want to start or keep contributing to an HSA?

Consider any additional benefits that might be offered with your health plan, like:

• Healthy groceries
• Gym membership reimbursements
• Car seats
• Allowance for community education classes
• Rewards for completing your preventive care
• Support and resources through member assistance programs