The amount your health insurance plan requires you to pay for health care services and supplies before they begin to pay. For example, if your deductible is $1,500, you are responsible for paying for all of the services and supplies you receive (except for any covered
preventive services
preventive services
Routine health care, including physicals, screenings, check-ups and patient counseling to prevent illnesses, disease or other health problems; or, to detect illness at an early stage, when treatment is likely to work best. Most health plans cover preventive services at no additional cost to you.
) until the amount you paid reaches $1,500. Once the deductible
preventive services
preventive services
Routine health care, including physicals, screenings, check-ups and patient counseling to prevent illnesses, disease or other health problems; or, to detect illness at an early stage, when treatment is likely to work best. Most health plans cover preventive services at no additional cost to you.
has been reached, your insurance company may pay for all of your health care expenses, or you may have to pay
co-insurance
co-insurance
The amount you pay for the cost of services after you pay any deductibles. Co-insurance is based on the negotiated rate between the insurance company and health care provider; it is not the provider’s charge. Co-insurance is typically a percentage and is limited by the out-of-pocket maximum or annual limit.
, a percentage of the charges. If you have a high deductible
co-insurance
co-insurance
The amount you pay for the cost of services after you pay any deductibles. Co-insurance is based on the negotiated rate between the insurance company and health care provider; it is not the provider’s charge. Co-insurance is typically a percentage and is limited by the out-of-pocket maximum or annual limit.
health plan, you may be eligible for a Health Savings Account.