The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) is advising consumers to carefully review alternative health plans before making a purchase. According to TDI, these types of plans may not be regulated by the state and are not required to comply with federal regulations.
TDI notes that health plans offering limited benefits can appear appealing due to their lower prices. However, the department urges potential buyers to ask questions about what the plan covers and the costs involved when visiting a doctor.
Unlike plans available through HealthCare.gov, alternative health plans are subject to different requirements and may not offer the same protections or coverage levels.
Some of the most common options in this category include short-term medical policies, discount health programs, and other non-traditional products.
TDI recommends using its health plan shopping guide for information on what questions to ask when selecting a plan. The department also suggests checking consumer reviews to evaluate a plan’s history regarding claim payments and customer service.
