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    Plan Comparison

    Understanding Your Coverage Options

    We break down the four main "buckets" of health coverage so you can make an informed decision about what's best for your health and budget.

    ACA & ACA Alternatives

    Pros

    • Covers 10 essential health benefits including preventive and maternity care
    • Allows pre-existing conditions
    • Recognizable brand names
    • Covers catastrophic claims

    Cons

    • Very expensive especially for higher income earners
    • Requires out-of-pocket dollars first through deductibles and copays
    • Limited options
    • Network restrictions

    Short Term Medical (STM)

    Pros

    • Less expensive than ACA plans
    • Familiar structure similar to ACA plans
    • Effective bridge coverage for gaps in insurance
    • Variety of carrier and plan options
    • Many plans now offer terms up to 12 months

    Cons

    • Not available in all states
    • Must re-qualify based on health each term
    • Deductibles may reset each term depending on the plan
    • Availability and terms vary by state and carrier
    • Uncertain legislative future

    Health Sharing Ministry

    Pros

    • Has the look and feel of ACA coverage
    • More affordable than ACA
    • Sense of community and faith-based values
    • Variety of carriers and plans

    Cons

    • Health sharing, not insurance
    • Claim coverage not guaranteed
    • Must qualify based on health and lifestyle
    • Pre-existing condition periods of 2-3 years

    Defined Benefit Plan (Indemnity)

    Pros

    • Pays first dollar benefits with no deductible
    • Affordable and stable premiums
    • Great flexibility in choosing doctors
    • Excess indemnity paid back to you

    Cons

    • Need to be in fairly good health
    • Pre-existing condition period of 12 months
    • Structure is unfamiliar to some
    • Customer needs to be active in their healthcare decisions
    • Carrier selection is critical

    Plan features, availability, and terms vary by carrier and state. The information above reflects common plan characteristics and is intended as a general overview. Individual plans may differ. Contact us for a personalized review of your specific options.

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    Take our quick 4-step quiz to find the best match for your situation, or download our free Plan Comparison Guide to review later.

    Free Comparison Guide

    ACA vs. Private Alternatives

    See why healthy individuals are leaving the marketplace for better private options.

    Feature
    GovernmentACA Plans
    Private MarketOur Alternatives
    Premiums
    High(unless heavily subsidized)
    Lower(up to 40% less for healthy folks)
    Enrollment Period
    Nov 1 - Jan 15 only
    Year-Round
    Network Size
    Often restricted (HMOs)
    Large PPO NetworksChoose your own doctor
    Customization
    One-size-fits-all
    Built around your needs
    Health Status
    Guaranteed issue(You pay for others' care)
    Medically underwritten(You get rewarded for health)
    Income Protection
    Not included
    Disability & critical illness available
    Long-Term Care
    Not included
    Available as standalone coverage