If you’re shopping for health insurance, you may have come across the term “deductible.” But what is a deductible, and how does it work? In this blog post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about deductibles in health insurance. We’ll cover what they are, how they work, and how they can impact your health insurance premiums. By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of how deductibles work and whether or not they’re right for you.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the set amount that you must pay towards your medical bills before your insurance company will start to contribute. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your medical bills come to $1,000, you will need to pay the first $500 yourself and then your insurer will cover the remaining $500. The amount you pay towards your deductible can usually be made in monthly installments.
How does a deductible work with health insurance?
A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay for medical services before your health insurance plan starts to pay. For example, if your plan’s deductible is $1,000, you will need to pay the first $1,000 of medical expenses yourself. After you have met your deductible, you will usually only have to pay a copayment or coinsurance for covered services.
What are the benefits of having a deductible?
When you have a deductible in your health insurance policy, it acts as a safeguard for you and your finances. By requiring that you pay a certain amount out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in, a deductible protects you from having to pay for expensive treatments or procedures if you only need basic care. In addition, a deductible can also help keep your monthly premiums lower.
Are there any drawbacks to having a deductible?
Yes, there are some drawbacks to having a deductible in your health insurance plan. One of the biggest drawbacks is that you have to pay the entire deductible before your insurance company will start paying for any of your medical bills. This can be a big financial burden if you have a large medical bill. Additionally, some people never reach their deductible because they never have any major medical bills. In this case, they are essentially paying for insurance that they never use.
How can I make the most of my health insurance deductible?
Assuming you have a PPO plan with a $2000 deductible and you are single:
You will pay 100% of your medical bills until you reach $2,000 in covered expenses for the year.
This is true whether you have a $10 co-pay for doctor visits or no co-pay at all. Once you’ve met your deductible, you will usually only be responsible for a copayment or coinsurance for covered services.
Conclusion
A deductible is an important part of health insurance because it protects you from having to pay for small, everyday medical expenses. By setting a deductible, you can save money on your monthly premiums and still have coverage for major medical expenses. When choosing a health insurance plan, be sure to consider your needs and budget to find the perfect deductible for you.