Introduction
In Part Two: Getting Covered, we shift our focus from learning the basics to taking practical steps in the process of shopping for and purchasing a group coverage plan. We’ll explain how to get organized, make preliminary decisions, work with a broker, choose a plan and implement the plan.
Because the world of insurance plans can get confusing, and since you likely have limited time to spend, we do recommend using a broker to find possible plans for you and explain your options. However, proceeding without a broker may be fine—for instance, if you know exactly which plan you want to buy and don’t want to compare policies.
In addition, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act introduced health insurance exchanges in 2014. The exchange provides an online marketplace allowing employers to pool their buying power and drive down the cost of coverage.
Keep in mind as you read Part Two that although we often assume you’ll be using a broker, we outline an approach to the process of purchasing an insurance plan that can help guide you whether you’re working with a broker or on your own.
Let’s get started.