One of the most common problems that one faces when looking for health insurance is the amount of premium. Are you paying too little or too much for insurance or are you compromising on some critical aspects of medical care by focusing too much on the price? At the end of the day, everyone wants a win-win situation wherein the health insurance you pick and renew year after year does not burn a hole in your pocket. Here is a comprehensive guide to buying an affordable health insurance plan.

Check out health insurance offered by the government

Sometimes, you might not have to buy a comprehensive individual health plan since your resident state and your income may qualify you for Medicaid options. You can always begin your search for a health insurance scheme on healthcare.gov depending on whether you are looking for a plan for yourself or you want to include your children. Sometimes, you might be in a state where you can avail the Children’s Health Insurance Program or your spouse might have the option to include the child in their scheme sponsored by their employer. Doing research will ensure you are on the right track and you make the right decisions when you sign up for individual health care.

Determine your budget
In the event that you don’t have any alternative, your next step would be to start looking for health insurance that covers your needs and fits within your budget. It is imperative to look for the right plan that will be a good fit in terms of all the benefits that it covers pursuant to the Affordable Care Act. While the level of service will vary between providers, you need to look at ones that are a priority for you.

Apply for health insurance online
The next step is to apply through the healthcare.gov website. Make sure you keep tabs on the open enrolment periods. Other times, there are open applications when you meet a qualifying life change such as marriage, the birth of a child, or loss of your previous coverage. A simple process of online application can help you explore your options and know whether you qualify for any alternatives as you complete the form.

Compare different plans
Make sure you compare all the listed costs and other details of all the options open before you. You can easily compare and do a strategic analysis of different plans you zero in on your final choice. Most guides to buying affordable health insurance suggest that the bronze category of the plan have the cheapest of the premiums, but in reality, it mean only 60% of your medical costs would be covered. On the other hand, in a platinum plan, there would be 90% coverage. Make sure you evaluate your medical history as that will help you forecast your possible future medical expenses and choose a plan accordingly.