What are folks using for health insurance for entrepreneurs and hustlers?
A few years ago when I was bootstrapped and going it largely alone, I had the benefit of getting decent insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). After then, I joined a startup that provided great insurance. The sub-company I co-created just got acquired, and now, I'm looking at continuing an independent route till I grow my next startup.
However, the health insurance landscape has changed with most of the great providers abandoning the ACA marketplace. What are folks using today that's great for solo-preneurs or small bootstrapped startups?
Great question. My COBRA runs out next month and I will be looking for options of the next couple of weeks myself. If anyone has recommendations for the Seattle area, I will gladly take them.
Let's hope this thread provides some good options!
With a family of 6 and being independent, healthcare is a challenge. I had really good healthcare when first on my own before ACA (fortunate that no one has preexisting conditions). Then during ACA our pricing went up ALOT every year. We went from paying $250/mo to ~$1250/mo. So I then decided last year to go with a Christian healthshare program. There are several, we use this one: http://libertyhealthshare.org . It's a bit more effort because you have to pay cash for everything then get reimbursed once your deductible is hit. But now we pay ~$500/mo and can go to any doctor. Obviously not for everyone but if you are healthy and live a clean lifestyle it is a good alternative.
Is your coverage comparable to your previous plans? I need to dig in also on what potential costs are for in-network vs. out. I suspect with many of these smaller players the networks are vastly different.
There is no network. You go to any doctor who accepts cash payment (we haven't had anyone push back). Sometimes the receptionist doesn't know how to handle the situation and needs to ask a supervisor but we've never been turned away. Its just a bit more of a hassle as you need to pay out of pocket for visits then get reimbursed. If its a large bill (like a hospital visit), then you can have them send it directly to the healthshare provider. Luckily we haven't had to experience that.
Ah, got it. Yes, the network of cash-only practices is growing. Thanks for the info.
Depending on your location and needs, Oscar is a great option (https://www.hioscar.com/). They seem relatively affordable, comprehensive, and take a modern approach to insurance.
Other than that, looking into private plans with one of the big companies (e.g. Aetna) is always an option.
No matter which company you go with, it's going to be expensive. Good luck.
hioscar looks great. I hope to see it expand.
Thanks! Yeah, I looked at Oscar, but not available where I am -- Atlanta. I am continuing the search including the current skeleton that is healthcare.org and ehealthinsurance.com, but neither have been good. It's fascinating how few options there are.