3 ways an ACA Marketplace plan may support your health needs
Life can change quickly, and when it does, your health insurance needs may change, too. A new job, a move, a shift to self-employment or another major life event may have you looking for a new health plan for yourself or your family.
An Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace plan, also known as an exchange plan, may be an option for people who do not receive coverage through an employer or programs such as Medicare, Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These plans can provide access to preventive care, prescription medications, virtual visits, behavioral health care and other health services.
Open enrollment begins Nov. 1 and runs until Jan. 15, 2027, in most states. Selecting a plan by Dec. 15 allows coverage to begin Jan. 1, 2027. Plans selected after Dec. 15 generally begin Feb. 1.
Here are three things to consider when comparing ACA Marketplace plans:
1. Look beyond the monthly premium
ACA Marketplace plans offer a variety of coverage options and price points. When comparing plans, consider not only the monthly premium but also other potential costs, such as deductibles, copays and coinsurance. Think about how often you and your family use health care and what services you may need in the coming year.
You may also qualify for financial assistance from the government that can help lower the cost of ACA Marketplace coverage. This may include premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions. Eligibility and the amount of financial assistance available may depend on things like your household income.
2. Consider benefits you may use throughout the year
Health insurance can help with more than unexpected medical needs. Marketplace plans can also provide access to preventive care, such as annual wellness checkups, vaccines and health screenings that may help you stay on top of your health throughout the year.
As you compare plans, look at other benefits and services that may be important to you and your family. Depending on the plan, some insurers, such as UnitedHealthcare, offer benefits that may include $0 unlimited virtual urgent care, $0 medical deductibles, incentives for completing certain health and account-related activities, and access to in-person gyms. If you take prescription medications, check whether they are covered by the plan.
“The right health plan looks different for every person and family,” said Marcus Robinson, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Individual and Family Plans. “Looking at costs, benefits and access to care can help you find coverage that fits your needs.”
3. Consider how you will access care
Before enrolling, check whether a plan includes the doctors, hospitals and other health care providers you prefer. You may also want to consider how easily you can access care when you need it, in person or virtually.
UnitedHealthcare, for example, offers ACA Marketplace plans in more than 1,300 counties across 29 states. UnitedHealthcare also offers no-cost assistance with finding a plan, along with language support in multiple languages.
The right health plan will depend on your health needs, budget and preferences. Comparing costs, benefits and access to care can help you choose ACA Marketplace coverage that works for you and your family in the year ahead.
Visit uhc.com/exchange or call 877-649-9797 for more information, to enroll or change coverage during the open enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027, in most states.
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