1. Individual Health Insurance Policies

These are health insurance plans purchased by individuals rather than provided through an employer. They can be bought through:

• The Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange)

• Private insurance companies
  These policies are ideal for self-employed individuals, those between jobs, or those whose employers do not offer health coverage. Coverage, premiums, and benefits vary by provider, location, and plan.

2. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

HMO plans focus on preventive care and cost-efficiency. Key features:

• Require selection of a Primary Care Physician (PCP)

• Referrals needed from PCP to see specialists

• Only cover care from in-network providers

• Typically lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs
  Best for individuals who want coordinated care and don’t mind limited provider options.

3. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

PPO plans offer greater flexibility in choosing healthcare providers:

• No referral needed to see specialists

• Can see both in-network and out-of-network providers (though out-of-network costs more)

• Higher premiums than HMOs but more provider options
  Appealing to those who want more freedom in managing their healthcare.

4. Point Of Service (POS)

POS plans combine features of HMO and PPO plans:

• Require a Primary Care Physician and referrals for specialists

• Offer the ability to see out-of-network providers (at higher cost)

• Typically have lower premiums than PPOs but more flexibility than HMOs
  Good for people who want a middle ground between flexibility and affordability.

5. High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP)

HDHPs are health plans with high deductibles and lower monthly premiums. Often paired with:

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for tax-advantaged savings on medical expenses
  Ideal for healthy individuals or families who want lower premiums and can manage higher out-of-pocket costs in case of major medical events.

6. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)

EPOs combine aspects of HMOs and PPOs:

• No need for referrals to see specialists

• Only cover services from in-network providers (except emergencies)

• Lower premiums than PPOs, but less flexibility in provider choice
  Best for individuals who don’t need out-of-network care and want a cost-effective plan.

7. Medicare / Medicaid

These are government-sponsored programs:

• Medicare: For individuals 65 and older or with certain disabilities. It has several parts:

  • Part A: Hospital insurance

  • Part B: Medical insurance

  • Part C (Medicare Advantage): Managed plans by private insurers

  • Part D: Prescription drug coverage

• Medicaid: For low-income individuals and families. Funded jointly by federal and state governments. Eligibility and benefits vary by state.

8. Catastrophic Health Insurance

Catastrophic plans are designed for young, healthy individuals under 30 or those who qualify for a hardship exemption:

• Very low premiums and very high deductibles

• Only cover essential health benefits and preventive services until the deductible is met

• Useful for emergency protection but not for regular care

9. Short Term Health Insurance

These temporary plans provide limited coverage for a short period, usually up to 12 months (sometimes renewable for up to 36 months):

• Not required to cover pre-existing conditions

• Lower premiums, limited benefits

• Not compliant with ACA (Affordable Care Act) standards
  Useful for those between jobs or waiting for permanent coverage to start.

10. Marketplace Exchange

The Health Insurance Marketplace (or Exchange) is a platform created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) where individuals can:

• Compare and buy ACA-compliant health plans

• Apply for premium tax credits and subsidies based on income

• Access open enrollment annually or qualify through special enrollment
  Available at the federal level (HealthCare.gov) and in many states through state-based exchanges.