Regulated under state law, individual health insurance is coverage purchased by an independent person (like you), not provided by an employer. Although it is called individual health insurance, the available policies can cover your family.

When you say “cover,” what exactly does that mean? Individual health insurance can help pay for medical expenses for an illness, injury, or other condition. If you are unsure of the benefits of this coverage, consider the following:

• Accidents or health issues can occur at any time.
• Medical care can be incredibly expensive and is the number one cause of bankruptcy.
• Insurance companies can give you access to networks of doctors and hospitals with negotiated lower rates.

More specifically, individual health insurance plans must cover 10 essential health benefits including:

• Prescription drugs
• Laboratory services
• Preventive and wellness services
• Pediatric services
• Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices