Best Health Insurance Agencies in Birmingham

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  If you're looking for health insurance for yourself or your family, an agent can help you save time, understand your options, and manage your costs. Insurance agents must be licensed in the state where they operate. They can provide information about on- and off-exchange plans to help you weigh all of your options, and they can see if you qualify for tax credits that can lower your monthly premiums. There's no cost to work with an agent, and they can help you save quite a bit by recommending the best plan for your needs. Here's what you should know before you get started.
  

• What are the health care benefits of an HMO plan in Birmingham?

  HMO or Health Maintenance Organization is a type of Managed Care health insurance option providing you access to a wide network of healthcare professionals and facilities throughout Birmingham, as long as they are participating in the HMO program. These HMO plans allow you to save money by paying fewer out-of-pocket expenses for your medical services. However, doctor visits and prescriptions will be often charged or require a co-payment.

• What is included in the Medicare Part D coverage in Birmingham?

  Medicare Part D plans in Birmingham provide prescription drug coverage, helping you manage your medication costs and have easier access to the prescription drugs you need. These plans also offer a pharmacy mail-order service and a 90-day prescription drug supply. However, Part D plans only cover the medications or drugs included on the Formulary or drug list.

• Can you add your newborn child to your health insurance coverage in Birmingham?

  Yes. You have 30 days from the date of birth, adoption, or placement for adoption to include your new child in your health insurance coverage in Birmingham. It is also important to note that your grandchild cannot be added to your health insurance coverage unless you or your spouse are the court-appointed legal guardian of the child.

• When should you apply for health insurance plans from ACA Marketplace in Birmingham?

  ACA Marketplace allows you to apply for Birmingham ACA health insurance plans within the annual open enrollment period between November 1 and December 15. These ACA health plans help you achieve tax subsidies or decrease monthly premiums. If you missed the open enrollment, you may still opt to apply during the Special Enrollment Period if you have a valid reason for missing the open enrollment, such as having a child, relocating, getting married, or losing your health coverage.

• Who should get a short-term health insurance plan in Birmingham?

  Short-term health insurance plans in Birmingham provide temporary coverage for your healthcare needs while waiting for long-term insurance solutions. These plans are often suitable if you are:

  • Waiting for ACA open enrollment or ACA coverage to start.
  • Coming off your parent’s insurance when you turn 26.
  • Going through job changes or waiting for health care benefits to begin at your new job.
  • Looking for coverage to help you transition to Medicare.
  • You don’t qualify for the Special Enrollment Period to apply for an ACA plan.

• How can you find affordable health insurance? 

  Affordable insurance is available through employers, Medicare, Medicaid, and the federal Health Insurance Marketplace, which offers subsidies in the form of tax credits. You can also purchase coverage through private insurance companies and independent agents. Nearly half of all Americans have employer-sponsored health insurance, and about 10% of the population is uninsured.