The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) is advising consumers to carefully evaluate alternative health plans before purchasing. According to TDI, these types of plans may not be regulated by the state and are not required to comply with federal standards.
TDI notes that health plans offering limited benefits can seem appealing due to their lower prices. However, consumers are encouraged to ask detailed questions about what the plan covers and what out-of-pocket costs they might face when visiting a doctor.
Alternative health plans differ from those available through HealthCare.gov in several ways. Some of the most common options include short-term medical policies, discount plans, and health care sharing ministries.
To assist consumers in making informed decisions, TDI provides a shopping guide for health plans. The department also recommends checking consumer reviews for any plan under consideration to assess its record on paying claims and providing customer service.
