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Health insurance for people without an employer plan
Private health insurance covers doctor visits, prescriptions and hospital care for people who don't get coverage through an employer. I help self-employed people, early retirees and anyone between jobs compare individual and family plans, check the networks, and enroll during the right window.
Who it’s for
- Self-employed people and small business owners
- Early retirees who aren't 65 yet
- People between jobs
- Families whose work plan costs too much
What I check before I recommend it
- Your doctors and hospital are in the network.
- The deductible and out-of-pocket maximum, not only the monthly premium.
- Your prescriptions against each plan's drug list.
- When you can enroll: open enrollment, or a special enrollment period after a life change.
In plain English
How health insurance works
The cheapest monthly premium often turns out to be the most expensive plan once you see a doctor. I compare what a year would cost you with your real doctors and prescriptions, not only the sticker price.
Plans and networks change county by county, so I check what's offered where you live before recommending anything.
Questions
Health insurance questions people ask me
When can I buy health insurance?
Most individual plans can only be bought during open enrollment each fall, or during a special enrollment period after a life event like losing job coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby. If you're not sure whether you qualify, call me.
What's the difference between an HMO and a PPO?
An HMO usually requires you to use doctors in its network and get referrals to see specialists. A PPO lets you see doctors outside the network for a higher cost, usually without referrals. PPOs tend to cost more each month.
Does it cost more to buy health insurance through an agent?
No. The insurance company sets the price, and you pay the same whether you enroll through me or on your own. The carrier pays me.
I just lost my job coverage. What should I do?
Losing employer coverage usually opens a 60-day special enrollment period. Compare COBRA with an individual plan before you decide, because one is often much cheaper than the other.
Other coverage I help with
States where I’m licensed
Let’s figure out what your family needs.
Call me or send a quick note. You’ll hear back from me, not a call center.