What is a health insurance deductible?

A health insurance deductible is an amount of money a person must pay out of pocket for health care services before their health insurance company begins to cover the cost. In California, deductibles vary depending on the type of health insurance plan and policyholder. Generally, a deductible is a set amount, such as $500, and must be paid each calendar year before the insurance company will begin paying for services. Some plans may require a deductible for every doctor’s visit, while others might only require a deductible for more expensive services, like hospitalizations and surgeries. The deductible is an important factor to consider when selecting a health insurance plan. A lower deductible plan may have a higher monthly premium, while plans with a higher deductible may be more affordable. It’s important to remember that individuals may still be responsible for paying some costs even after the deductible is met. For example, co-pays, co-insurance and other out of pocket fees may still apply.

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