Top 5 Mistakes People Make With Their Health Insurance (and How to Avoid Them)
Health insurance is one of those things we don’t think much about—until we need it. But the truth is, one small mistake could cost you big in medical bills, missed coverage, or endless headaches.
Here are the top 5 mistakes people make with their health insurance (and how you can steer clear of them):
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1. Only Looking at the Monthly Premium
Many people shop for health insurance like they shop for car insurance—they focus on the lowest monthly payment. But a cheap premium can mean sky-high deductibles, limited networks, and bigger out-of-pocket costs when you actually use the plan.
Avoid It: Look at the total cost of a plan: premium, deductible, copays, and coinsurance. Ask yourself, “If I got sick or injured, how much would I have to pay before insurance kicks in?”
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2. Assuming “In-Network” Means Everything’s Covered
Just because your doctor is in-network doesn’t mean every procedure or prescription they recommend will be fully covered.
Avoid It: Before scheduling tests or treatments, call your insurance or check your plan’s summary to confirm what’s covered and what might cost extra.
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3. Not Reviewing Your Plan During Open Enrollment
Life changes—maybe you switched jobs, had a baby, or developed a new health condition. But many people let their insurance auto-renew without checking if it still fits their needs.
Avoid It: Use open enrollment to review your coverage and adjust if needed. If you’re unsure, talk to a licensed insurance agent (like me!) who can help you make sense of the options.
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4. Skipping Supplemental Coverage
Even with a solid major medical plan, an unexpected accident, hospital stay, or critical illness can lead to big out-of-pocket costs.
Avoid It: Consider adding affordable supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, or hospital indemnity coverage. These can give you a financial cushion when life throws you a curveball.
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5. Not Asking for Help
Health insurance is complicated—and many people feel too intimidated to ask questions. Unfortunately, that can lead to costly mistakes or missed opportunities for better coverage.
Avoid It: Don’t go it alone. A trusted broker can help you compare plans, explain the fine print, and find coverage that fits your life and budget. (Hint: It costs you nothing extra to work with a broker, like Riva Beaudoin.
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The Bottom Line
Your health and finances are too important to leave to chance. Take the time to understand your plan, ask questions, and make sure your coverage really works for you.
Want help reviewing your current plan or exploring your options? I’m here to make it simple
Riva Beaudoin
CalSunshine Insurance Services
Phone: (619) 917-7707
Email: Riva_Beaudoin@Us.Aflac.Com
Ca Lic. # 0H31968
Here are the top 5 mistakes people make with their health insurance (and how you can steer clear of them):
---
1. Only Looking at the Monthly Premium
Many people shop for health insurance like they shop for car insurance—they focus on the lowest monthly payment. But a cheap premium can mean sky-high deductibles, limited networks, and bigger out-of-pocket costs when you actually use the plan.
Avoid It: Look at the total cost of a plan: premium, deductible, copays, and coinsurance. Ask yourself, “If I got sick or injured, how much would I have to pay before insurance kicks in?”
---
2. Assuming “In-Network” Means Everything’s Covered
Just because your doctor is in-network doesn’t mean every procedure or prescription they recommend will be fully covered.
Avoid It: Before scheduling tests or treatments, call your insurance or check your plan’s summary to confirm what’s covered and what might cost extra.
---
3. Not Reviewing Your Plan During Open Enrollment
Life changes—maybe you switched jobs, had a baby, or developed a new health condition. But many people let their insurance auto-renew without checking if it still fits their needs.
Avoid It: Use open enrollment to review your coverage and adjust if needed. If you’re unsure, talk to a licensed insurance agent (like me!) who can help you make sense of the options.
---
4. Skipping Supplemental Coverage
Even with a solid major medical plan, an unexpected accident, hospital stay, or critical illness can lead to big out-of-pocket costs.
Avoid It: Consider adding affordable supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, or hospital indemnity coverage. These can give you a financial cushion when life throws you a curveball.
---
5. Not Asking for Help
Health insurance is complicated—and many people feel too intimidated to ask questions. Unfortunately, that can lead to costly mistakes or missed opportunities for better coverage.
Avoid It: Don’t go it alone. A trusted broker can help you compare plans, explain the fine print, and find coverage that fits your life and budget. (Hint: It costs you nothing extra to work with a broker, like Riva Beaudoin.
---
The Bottom Line
Your health and finances are too important to leave to chance. Take the time to understand your plan, ask questions, and make sure your coverage really works for you.
Want help reviewing your current plan or exploring your options? I’m here to make it simple
Riva Beaudoin
CalSunshine Insurance Services
Phone: (619) 917-7707
Email: Riva_Beaudoin@Us.Aflac.Com
Ca Lic. # 0H31968