Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois

It’s that dreaded word— homework. Don’t worry; it’s not as awful as it sounds.  It’s time to get ready for the Open Enrollment Period, that important time of the year when you can apply for health insurance. If you’re still in the early stages of shopping, then it’s first things first! Let us guide you in preparing to buy health coverage that meets your needs and fits your budget. Explore your options and learn about the steps you need to take.

Step 1: Plan Ahead

• List out your questions before choosing a plan. Review these FAQs before you apply for health insurance. Think about how much coverage you need. Reviewing our list of questions to ask when seeking a plan can help you find out what factors are more important to you when it comes to your coverage.
• Provider Network  – Is your doctor in the plan’s network? If you want to stick with your current provider, you may want to make a list of doctors, specialists, physical therapists, pharmacies, hospitals and urgent care centers you use and check to see if they are in the plan’s network
• Set a budget.  Think about the monthly premium, but also keep in mind the deductible, copayments and other out-of-pocket costs  to figure out what you could end up paying within a year, should you end up with unexpected medical bills. When you apply for health insuracnce, a general rule of thumb is the more you spend on your premium, the less you will need to pay out of pocket when receiving care .
• Gather basic information about your household.

Step 2: See if You Can Get Help Paying for Health Insurance

Check if you qualify for financial assistance. The health care law helps many people pay for health insurance. Based on your income, family size and the health plan you choose, you may qualify for federal financial assistance. This could reduce – or even eliminate – your monthly premium.

Step 3: Find a Plan that Fits You

Once you’ve thought about everything that you (and you family) may want and need, now you can choose a health plan that fits your lifestyle and budget while taking great care of your health!

If you're ready, start shopping now or, if you have any questions, you can call us at 877-731-4649, visit our website or come to one of our events to get help in person.

Last update: 10/22/2018