Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace can be daunting, but understanding its mechanics is crucial for making informed decisions. The marketplace is a platform where individuals, families, and small businesses can shop for and enroll in affordable health insurance coverage.
Plans are categorized into Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each offering different levels of coverage and costs. Additionally, catastrophic health plans provide a safety net for unexpected serious injuries or illnesses.
Health insurance plans come in various types such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs). HMOs typically require members to choose a primary care doctor and get referrals to see specialists, while PPOs offer more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.
It’s also vital to distinguish between on-exchange and off-exchange health insurance plans. On-exchange plans are those purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace and adhere to ACA standards, offering potential subsidies based on income and household size.
When evaluating total healthcare costs, consider premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Premiums are the monthly payments you make to keep your insurance active, while deductibles are the amounts you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering your medical costs.
Out-of-pocket expenses include copayments and coinsurance, which are additional costs you pay when you receive medical services.
Understanding these components allows you to make a more informed decision about which health plan best suits your needs and budget.

Sentara Health Plans offers a variety of health insurance coverage options through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
These plans serving Medicare are designed to meet the needs of a diverse range of individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid enrollees, self-employed individuals, and families.
Whether you are looking for a basic plan or a more comprehensive option, Sentara Health Plans has something to offer.
A key distinction is the difference between on-exchange and off-exchange health insurance plans. On-exchange plans are purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace and comply with ACA standards, making you eligible for potential subsidies.
Off-exchange plans, on the other hand, are purchased directly from insurers and may not offer the same level of benefits or subsidies.
Sentara Health Plans provides both options, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and circumstances.

Enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace is essential for accessing a variety of health plans and benefits. The Open Enrollment period, usually from November 1 to January 15, is the designated time to choose your plan.
During this time, explore various health insurance coverage options and select the one that best fits your needs.
A major benefit of enrolling in Marketplace health insurance is the availability of subsidies. These subsidies are based on your income and household size, making health insurance more affordable for many families. However, it’s essential to note that subsidies are only available for on-exchange plans.
If you choose an off-exchange plan, you will be responsible for the full premium without any subsidy assistance. To find out more about your eligibility and to start your enrollment, visit the Marketplace website.
Individuals from various backgrounds, including the self-employed, unemployed, retired, and those with employer coverage, can enroll in Marketplace health insurance. This diversity ensures that everyone has access to quality health insurance.
Missing the Open Enrollment period isn’t the end. Certain life events, like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, can qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period, enabling you to adjust your health plan outside the regular timeframe.