Medical plans in Central Ohio are very affordable and represent some of the lowest available costs in the US. Most of the area has enjoyed low rates for several years. Individual and family plans continue to remain among the “best buys” in the Midwest. UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, Medical Mutual, Molina, and Humana are several of the major companies (Individual and Senior) that we research for you.
Like the rest of the state, newly-issued policies do not require the applicant to answer any medical questions, take a physical, or prove insurability during the Open Enrollment period. Once this 45-day window has ended, an SEP (Special Enrollment Period) exemption is needed to qualify for a Marketplace plan with or without a federal subsidy. Senior Medicare plans use a different Open Enrollment period (October 15-December 7).
What About Temporary Coverage?
Short-term insurance rates in Columbus are extremely inexpensive. If you need medical coverage for less than 12 months, ask us about a temporary contract. Premiums are approximately 25%-60% lower than most comprehensive plans, and this type of policy is appropriate if you are between employers, laid off, a graduating, part-time or full-time student, or waiting for benefits to begin from a new employer.
Typically, UnitedHealthcare, National General, Companion Life, and HCC Life offer the most competitive prices in the Buckeye State. The application process is streamlined, so policies are approved within 24-72 hours. Monthly billing provides a low initial payment.
Health Insurance Rates In Central Ohio Counties
If you reside in Franklin County, or several of the surrounding Ohio counties, such as Delaware, Union, Madison, Morrow, Knox, Marion, and Licking, rates are among the lowest in the state. High-deductible and catastrophic plans are the least expensive, often costing less than $100 per month for an individual, and less than $200 per month for a family (with subsidy included).
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are also still one of the most popular options for the self-employed, and individuals and families that don’t submit many claims. HSA contributions can be used to pay qualified medical, dental and vision expenses on a tax-favored basis. Negotiated network price reductions will save thousands of dollars in potential out-of-pocket costs.
Why Are Prices Low?
Some of the reasons for low rates in this part of the state include lower facility and expense charges, lower doctor office and Urgent Care visit charges, and a higher use of preventative coverage from individual policyholders. Since preventative benefits are covered at 100% with no waiting period, many consumers take advantage of free annual physicals, OBGYN visits, baby well-checkups, and free diagnostic screenings.
The area is also home to some of the best hospitals, including OSU Wexner Medical Center, Grant, Riverside Methodist, Doctors Hospital, Nationwide Children’s, James Cancer Hospital, Mount Carmel New Albany Surgical Hospital, Dublin Methodist, Fairfield Medical Center, McConnell Heart Hospital, and Mount Carmel East and West.
Premiums for the self-employed are also lower than many other areas of the state. HSAs and high-deductible plans are often popular choices for the self-employed. Because the insurers can negotiate larger discounts, you’ll often pay less on medical expenses that are subject to a deductible. Columbus has many available medical facilities, so competition remains high, and prices, of course, tend to remain stable.
UnitedHealthcare(UHC), Medical Mutual, Molina, and Anthem Blue Cross feature some of the most attractive offers in the Central Ohio area. However, we are constantly monitoring current rate trends in an effort to ensure you are receiving the most coverage for your dollar. For catastrophic and preventative coverage (only), high-deductible Marketplace options available through the Bronze-tier are ideal. Office visit and prescription benefits are included, although a deductible may apply.
Looking Ahead
Premiums in Central Ohio are expected to remain very attractive for the foreseeable future. The State Marketplace utilizes zip codes to determine prices, and that helps keep local healthcare costs down.
