Getting married is all about joining things together — lives, bank accounts, furnishings, families and even health insurance. As a new couple starting out, it’s important to be on the same page. We’ll walk you through key areas to discuss while choosing your new health insurance.
Medical History
In sickness and in health, right? Part of being married means keeping each other as healthy as possible. Make sure you’re both up-to-date on each other’s medical history, so you can encourage each other to invest in the right care. Check out our HealthiestYou health and wellness program (not insurance).
Budget
Make sure to include health insurance in your new family budget. How much are you comfortable spending on monthly premiums? What has your health care spending been in the past? Does it make more financial sense for you to be covered under one of your employer-sponsored plans or under an individual family plan?
Frequency of Doctor Visits
Talking about how often you see health care providers helps you decide on the right insurance plan. For example, people who visit their health care providers regularly might want to especially consider Copay plans.
Family planning
Maybe you’re thinking about growing your family. Or maybe not. However, getting married is often an important time to think ahead toward any prenatal/maternity benefits you might need later. Maternity and newborn coverage is a part of the essential benefits in all qualified plans under the Affordable Care Act.
Medications
Now is a good opportunity to discuss what medications you each take regularly and how much coverage you’ll need. Some plans have set amounts, or copays, and others are less structured. Prescription drug coverage can look quite different from plan to plan.
Preferred Doctors
Do you and your spouse have current providers you want to keep? Or maybe you don’t mind switching around. Everyone feels differently, so make sure to have this discussion. You’ll want to find a health insurance plan with a provider network you’re both comfortable with.