What "private health insurance" means
Private health insurance is coverage you buy for yourself or your family instead of getting it through an employer or a government program like Medicare or Medicaid. In Florida, most people who buy their own coverage choose from a few kinds of plans.
| Plan type | How it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplace (ACA) plans | Sold through HealthCare.gov, the federal Marketplace Florida uses | The only plans where income-based savings can lower your premium |
| Off-Marketplace ACA plans | The same kind of plan, bought directly instead of through the Marketplace | Same consumer protections, but no premium tax credits |
| Short-term plans | Temporary coverage for a gap | Not required to cover pre-existing conditions or every essential benefit |
| Supplemental plans | Pay set cash amounts for an accident, illness or hospital stay | Meant to add to a health plan, not replace one |
Protections on ACA plans
Plans that follow the Affordable Care Act, on or off the Marketplace, can't turn you down or charge you more for a pre-existing condition. They cover essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, maternity care, mental health care and preventive care, and they cap what you pay out of pocket each year.
Why use a broker
- One comparison, many plans. Davis compares the plans available in your county side by side.
- Same price. For Marketplace plans, the premium is the same whether you enroll alone or with a licensed agent.
- Someone to call later. Billing and network questions, life changes and renewals.
Who Davis helps
Families, individuals, self-employed and 1099 workers, employers, and people losing job-based coverage or retiring before 65.
Common questions
Is private health insurance the same as Marketplace insurance?
Marketplace plans are one kind of private health insurance. Private coverage also includes ACA plans bought off the Marketplace and other products like short-term or supplemental plans.
Can I get savings on a private plan?
Income-based premium tax credits are only available on plans bought through the Marketplace.
Can I buy private health insurance any time of year?
ACA plans can be bought during Open Enrollment or with a Special Enrollment Period after a qualifying life event.
