Choosing the right health insurance company is crucial to getting adequate and affordable coverage. With costs rising faster than wages, picking the wrong plan or provider can strain your budget. This article reviews the top 25 health insurance companies to consider when choosing a coverage in 2024 based on financial stability, coverage options, discounts, technology, and customer satisfaction.
What Makes a Great Health Insurance Company?
Several key factors determine the quality of a health insurance provider, including:
- Affordable premiums and out-of-pocket costs: Monthly premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance expenses add up quickly. The best plans balance premiums with cost-sharing to fit different budgets.
- Strong national or regional networks: Broad provider networks give you more choices and better access to top hospitals and doctors.
- Good customer service: From enrollment to claims processing, you want knowledgeable reps readily available to answer questions.
- Innovative technology: User-friendly sites and apps make it easier to find network providers, check claims status, access ID cards, and more.
- Valuable member perks: Discounts on gym memberships, vision exams, alternative care or participation rewards encourage healthy behaviors.
Keeping these factors in mind, below are the top 25 health insurance companies for 2024 shoppers.
How to Get Health Insurance Without a Job: Complete Information
Top 25 Health Insurance Companies for 2024
1. UnitedHealthcare
As the largest health insurer nationally, UnitedHealthcare offers affordable plans with extensive provider networks. Popular features include virtual doctor visits, fitness program discounts, and prescription home delivery.
2. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem BCBS plans combine comprehensive coverage with customized wellness programs. Discounts are also available for vision, dental, life insurance and more.
3. Aetna
With coverage in all 50 states, Aetna is known for innovative member tools like price comparison tools and clinical policy databases. Most plans include gym discounts.
4. Cigna
Cigna plans fully cover certain preventive services and provide incentives to complete health assessments. The myCigna app and site simplify managing your policy.
5. Humana
Humana is focused on whole person health with wellness programs, on-demand coaching and rewards for healthy behaviors. Plans often include vision and dental.
6. Molina Healthcare
Molina Healthcare features affordable marketplace and Medicaid plans. Nearly all individual market plans include free gym networks.
7. Centene
Parent company to brands like Ambetter, Centene offers very low premium marketplace plans. Yet, provider networks can be limited in some states.
8. CareFirst
Regional to DC, Maryland and North Virginia, CareFirst members get access to BlueRewards for free health-related gifts and fitness devices.
9. Kaiser Permanente
With integrated care delivery and coverage, Kaiser plans offer complete coordination. But availability is largely limited to CA, CO, GA, HI and more.
10. Highmark
Consumers in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Delaware consider Highmark for its broad regional networks and Blue High 5 wellness rewards program.
11. Florida Blue
Florida Blue dominates the individual market in Florida with lowest-cost plans on the exchange. Member app provides easy access to ID cards and benefits.
12. HCSC
Health Care Service Corporation operates BCBS plans in IL, MT, NM, OK and TX focused on community health programs and local engagement.
13. Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the go-to carrier for affordable choices and member satisfaction in southeastern Pennsylvania and surrounding areas.
14. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Horizon BCBSNJ is a top choice for NJ residents thanks to health programs tailored locally plus fitness discounts and gift card rewards.
15. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
BCBSM works closely with Michigan doctors and hospitals to improve health affordability and access. Plans link to savings programs like Blue365.
16. Presbyterian Health Plan
Presbyterian Health provides flexible benefits centered around whole health to New Mexico and southern Colorado communities.
17. Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield CA plans leverage local partnerships to offer affordable choices statewide. Telehealth and wellness perks appeal to tech-savvy members.
18. Capital Blue Cross
Capital Blue Cross features affordable choices with extensive provider networks focused on community health improvement across 21 PA counties.
19. CareSource
CareSource marketplace plans appeal to lower-income households in GA, IN, KY, OH and more with low or $0 deductibles and broad networks.
20. Priority Health
Serving west Michigan, Priority Health is a not-for-profit plan combining comprehensive medical and prescription drug coverage.
21. Sanford Health Plan
While availability is limited across ND and parts of SD, Sanford Health Plan members get access to top-rated medical centers and hospitals.
22. Sharp Health Plan
Centered around southern California, Sharp Health Plan coordinates care delivery and coverage to provide complete health services.
23. UCare
UCare keeps premiums low for MN and western WI residents while linking to broad provider networks and member wellness programs.
24. Chinese Community Health Plan
CCHP offers culturally sensitive coverage plans to San Francisco Bay residents. High marks go to preventive care and service quality.
25. Healthfirst
Popular with lower income families and essential workers in the NY metro area, Healthfirst plans fully cover certain services with no deductible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best health insurance company?
Start by comparing factors like premium costs, provider networks, prescription coverage, health programs, customer service ratings and member resources in your area. Pick a company that closely fits your budget and health needs.
Should I consider regional or national insurance companies?
National insurers have the advantage of large coverage areas. But regional companies often better understand local community health needs and form strong partnerships with nearby providers.
What features help control health care costs?
Telehealth benefits, price transparency tools, mobile apps and member discounts help encourage more informed and cost-effective health care decisions. HSAs, HRAs and FSAs also help offset out-of-pocket expenses.
