1. Healthy lifestyle
The biggest benefit for having health insurance is being able to afford quality medical care. In addition, health insurance helps people live longer lives and avoid chronic illness.
Health insurance is not only about paying bills after getting sick; it’s also about prevention. Because preventive care and early detection save money by reducing hospital visits and emergency room charges, they are often much less expensive than treatment for acute illnesses. Early detection may even help prevent some types of cancer and heart disease.
2. Prevention
Most health problems aren’t caused by bad luck; they’re often due to poor choices we make everyday. By taking steps to protect our bodies, we reduce our risk of developing serious conditions. These steps include eating right, exercising regularly, staying away from smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, and avoiding illegal drugs. By making smart decisions about our lifestyles, we take charge of our own long-term health. We can do things like eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep, and keep our weight under control. When we practice these habits consistently, we’ll enjoy many years free of costly medical conditions.
3. Medical coverage
When people have health insurance, they can access medical services at a lower cost. If someone’s condition requires surgery or hospitalization, insurance makes sure they don’t have to pay out of pocket. Insurance also covers prescription medicines, physical therapy, vision care, dental care, mental health counseling, and rehabilitative care. A few states offer Medicaid as well, so anyone who qualifies may receive financial assistance. Many employers offer insurance plans, and if someone doesn’t work for their employer, they can purchase private insurance. Everyone should explore his options to find something affordable that meets his needs.
4. Lower costs
Insurance companies have strict rules about what they will and won’t cover. For example, policies rarely cover cosmetic procedures. But if someone gets breast implants, a simple mammogram will show whether she needs further testing. Other treatments that might seem frivolous to patients—such as Botox injections—are actually covered by insurance. Most insurance companies require preauthorization before providing payment, so people can easily ask questions about their coverage. As a result, insured individuals spend less time worrying about how much their treatment will cost.
5. Easy access to doctors
People with health insurance have easier access to medical facilities than those without. Insured people don’t need to worry about finding a doctor who accepts their insurance plan. They can go to any clinic, walk-in center, or urgent care center near where they live. They can choose among several specialists, and many hospitals accept different types of insurance plans. And since health insurance pays for routine checkups and screenings, insured people know they have good access to healthcare professionals who can catch potential problems before they develop into full-blown illnesses.
6. Coverage for family members
If someone has children, he can apply for child health insurance. Policies usually cover prenatal care, childbirth, newborn care, and pediatrician visits. Parents can use their insurance to pay for school supplies and uniforms, and it may provide coverage for summer camp or sports activities. Child health insurance is a great way to ensure young families have the tools they need to succeed.
7. Peace of mind
Health insurance gives people peace of mind when it comes to unexpected medical expenses. If someone falls ill, she can relax knowing that her health provider will treat her regardless of her ability to pay. Even if someone has no major illnesses, insurance provides protection in case of accidents or unforeseen events. For example, insurance may cover the costs associated with an auto accident.