In today’s ever-changing work landscape, more and more companies are embracing remote work and hiring remote employees. Some companies may offer health insurance for their employees while other companies only hire remote contractors, which means you have to figure out your own health insurance. However, navigating the world of health insurance can be overwhelming and confusing. As entrepreneurs ourselves, we know some of the basics around health insurance, so we wanted to share a little info that might help in choosing your insurance for the upcoming year.

Understanding the Basics of Health Insurance

Health insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company that provides coverage for medical expenses. Key terms to know include premiums (the amount you pay for coverage), deductibles (the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in), and copays (the fixed amount you pay for each medical service). Understanding these basics will help you navigate the world of health insurance and make informed decisions for yourself and your team.

Essential Steps in Preparing Health Insurance

Start by assessing your needs and budget, then research different insurance providers and plans. Consider your specific needs, such as age and health conditions. Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information, compare the plans and choose the one that offers the best coverage and value for you. 

If you are a business owner, don’t forget to communicate the details of the plan effectively to your employees to ensure everyone is well-informed and protected. Think about the specific needs and preferences of your remote team. Are they more interested in comprehensive coverage or lower premiums? Are there any pre-existing conditions that need to be taken into account? Additionally, consider the flexibility of the insurance provider and the ease of accessing healthcare services while working remotely. You can send out a survey to your team to ask their preferences here. Also keep in mind that getting insurance for employees that are in different states will require some different steps to provide coverage.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

When choosing a health insurance provider, it’s important to consider factors such as network coverage, reputation, customer service, and cost. Look for a provider that has a wide network of doctors and hospitals to ensure you have access to quality healthcare; you can also search by doctor if you want to ensure a certain doctor will be covered. Check reviews and ratings to gauge the provider’s reputation and customer satisfaction. Also, consider the cost of the plans, including premiums, deductibles, and copays, to find a balance between affordability and comprehensive coverage. Some plans also have great benefits that promote employees staying healthy by logging miles walked or challenges the companies can offer; this might be a great way to encourage your employees to boost their immune systems.

On the flipside, as a contractor, it is important to focus on being healthy while working from home. Search out plans that might offer incentives for you as an individual to complete healthy tasks. You can also search for plans that send regular health tips and offer check-ins to ensure you are keeping your health at the top of your mind.

For more in-depth information about healthcare options, visit: https://www.healthcare.gov/