Articles
Plain-English guides for people who buy their own health insurance or are trying to figure out their options. Browse by topic, or scroll down for our newest articles.
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What Is Better: PPO or HMO?
HMO or PPO? How the two plan types compare on cost, networks and referrals, when each makes sense, and how EPO and POS plans fit in.
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Does Obamacare Cover Dental?
Does Obamacare cover dental? Children’s dental is an essential benefit; adult dental is optional. How marketplace dental plans work and where adults can get coverage.
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How to Buy Health Insurance Outside the ACA’s Exchanges
How to buy an ACA health plan directly from an insurer or broker, what you give up in subsidies, and when an off-exchange plan can cost…
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Does Health Insurance Cover Mole Removal?
Does insurance cover mole removal? Yes, when it’s medically necessary, like a suspicious or changing mole. Cosmetic removal isn’t covered. What you’ll pay.
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Does Health Insurance Cover LASIK?
Does health insurance cover LASIK? Almost never. How vision plan discounts, HSAs and FSAs can lower the cost, plus 2026 contribution limits.
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Does Health Insurance Cover Therapy?
Does health insurance cover therapy? Usually. What ACA, job-based, Medicare and Medicaid plans cover, parity rules, costs and out-of-network therapists.
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Is a Drug Test Required Before Getting Health Insurance?
Is a drug test required for health insurance? No. ACA plans can’t use your health history. When tests do come up, and how substance use treatment…
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What Happens to My Health Insurance if I Start Smoking After Purchasing a Policy as a Non-Smoker?
Started smoking after buying health insurance as a nonsmoker? Your ACA premium generally won’t change mid-year. What to report, and what happens if you don’t.
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How Do Deductibles Work if I Have Two Health Insurance Plans?
Two health plans means two deductibles. Which plan pays first, how the secondary plan figures its share, and whether a second plan is worth the premium.
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My Spouse Died and I Was on Their Health Plan. What Are My Options?
Health insurance options after a spouse dies: COBRA for up to 36 months, a marketplace plan, your own job’s plan, Medicaid or Medicare, and how to…
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