When you’re young, it’s normal to think that you don’t need health insurance because you’re already healthy, or that it’s not worth the trouble due to student loans, car payments and credit card debt to pay off.
But life is unpredictable, no matter how ambitious you are. There are many good reasons why young adults should consider signing up for health insurance.
If you’re under the age of 26, you’re in luck for some time, as you may be able to use your parents’ health insurance plan.
But we’re not under 26 forever.
Open enrollment is one of the only times Nevadans can enroll in plans. Last year, more than 100,000 Nevadans enrolled in an affordable health insurance plan through NevadaHealthLink.com.
If you don’t enroll before January 15, you will have to wait until November for the next open enrollment period — unless you experience a certain Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as a change of employment or income, a marriage, the birth of a child, or a move.
We can’t predict when those events will actually happen, so again, why wait? Here are the top 4 reasons why young and healthy individuals should enroll in health insurance coverage before Jan. 15:
1. Life happens – and it could be costly
Putting a hold on health insurance might make it seem like you’re saving money, especially if you rarely visit the doctor. But when it comes to substantial injuries, such as a broken leg from skiing, it could cost you an average of $7,500 without insurance.
Overnight hospital stays when you’re not covered aren’t worth it, either. Without insurance, we’re talking as much as $30,000 for a three-day stay.
If you’re still on the fence about enrolling, we can get you connected with a certified enrollment assistant or broker in your area to discuss plan recommendations and help you compare affordable plans with health insurance providers in Nevada. The enrollment assistance is completely free, available in multiple languages, and available in person, online chat, or over the phone.
To get started, just type in your zip code.
2. You’ll qualify for low prices
If you think about it, you could save more with health insurance, especially with insurance carriers through Nevada Health Link.
Health plans offered through NevadaHealthLink.com are ideal for young adults in Nevada who do not have employer-sponsored health insurance, including the self-employed and gig workers; those who are not receiving or do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid; new Nevada residents; or anyone seeking comprehensive, affordable health care coverage.
Depending on your household income, you could qualify for low monthly premiums through Nevada Health Link. This is how much you pay each month for health insurance based on your annual household income.
In fact, 90 percent of Nevadans who shop for plans through Nevada Health Link qualify for premium tax credits to help lower the costs of monthly premiums and have plans under $100 per month.
Not sure how much insurance will cost you this year? Don’t worry, we’re here to help with that. All you have to do is provide your annual household income and zip code and we’ll match you with Nevada health insurance plans that best fit your budgetary needs.
3. All plans come with 10 essential benefits that keep you healthy
You’re in your prime and it feels great — let’s keep it that way!
With health insurance, you have access to different types of health services that can help you catch medical conditions before they become serious. This includes routine checkups, immunizations, and cancer screenings.
We call this preventive care. Every health insurance plan through Nevada Health Link encompasses 10 essential health benefits that can keep you feeling young and healthy.
4. Even more affordable plan options are on the table
When you’re shopping for health insurance, you’ll notice plans are categorized by different tier levels: bronze, silver, gold, and catastrophic. Each tier’s prices are different, as well as their level of coverage.
If you think you won’t use many healthcare services, your best bet is to enroll in a bronze plan. Although they usually have higher deductibles, bronze plans cover preventative care and often cap your annual medical costs.
You can also consider a catastrophic plan, which is the least expensive of the bunch. It’s also a great option for young adults in exchange for low monthly premiums, while still covering preventative care. This plan is great when you know you really don’t need that much health care.
Platinum plans are the most expensive; however, they also pay a large portion of your medical bills. If you’re not sure which Nevada health plan best fits your needs, we can help you compare affordable plans; take our quiz to discover which plan fits your plans.
How to start shopping for a health plan
Enrolling for insurance is quite simple; our step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process.
Nevadans have until 11:59pm on Jan. 15 to enroll in plans, with coverage beginning February 1. We’re here to assist you, so call us at 1-800-547-2927. The call center is open Monday through Sunday, from 9am to 5pm (excluding holidays).
