When looking at plan design and coverage, consider the following:

• Deductible Levels. Deductibles can range from $500--$6,500. Consider what you are comfortable with and how those deductibles affect the cost

• Out of Pocket Maximums. This is the most you will pay in a given year and can vary greatly

• Prescription Drug Coverage. Consider if you are more comfortable with low copayments or if prescriptions are subject to your annual deductible

• Provider networks.  Some carriers may only have one provider network available, while others may provide you a choice.  Smaller, more restrictive networks may allow you to keep your premiums costs down but you always need to make sure that your doctors and hospitals participate in the network

With all of these considerations, ASA will walk you through the process to ensure you have the plan that best fits you.

Enrollment

Individual insurance can only be purchased during the annual open enrollment period which typically runs from November 15 to December 15 of each year.
 

Products that may be available:

• HMO. Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) typically do not have out of network benefits which means if your doctor or hospital is not in the network, there is no coverage.  HMOs also require you to choose a Primary Care Physician (PCP) and all of your care is coordinated through your PCP.  HMOs are typically the most restrictive plans

• PPOs. Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) typically have the largest networks.  They also have out of network benefits that require higher out of pocket costs.  PCPs are not required

• EPOs. Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPO) are similar to PPOs but they do not have out of network benefits

• HDHPs. High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP) typically have higher deductibles than other plan designs.  Typically all benefits are subject to the deductible including prescription drugs except for preventive benefits which are covered in full.  HDHPs can also be coupled with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

• HSAs. HSAs are savings accounts that are owned by the employee and can be used for out-of-pocket medical expenses

• STM Plans. Short Term Medical Plans (STM) are typically like PPOs in coverage and networks.  The difference is that they only cover you for a short period of time (typically 60 days) and can be purchased outside of the annual open enrollment.  Having one of these plans does not protect you from the healthcare reform individual mandate penalty

• ASA Plan. Agri-Services Agency also administers our own plans that follow all of the rules of healthcare reform.  They are only available to certain individuals and in select states.  Call ASA to see if it is available in your area

• ​ASA Captive Health Plan. Agri-Services Agency also has a health captive program that is offered to employers group of 2 employees or greater.  If follows all of the rules of the healthcare reform law.  They are only available to certain employers and in select states.  Call ASA to see if it is available in your area