Top 5 Myths About Covered California Health Insurance Debunked

When it comes to health insurance, there’s no shortage of misinformation floating around. Whether you’re an individual looking for coverage or a small business owner trying to find the best options for your employees, understanding the truth about Covered California can save you time, money, and stress. In this post, we’re going to debunk the top 5 myths about Covered California Health Insurance, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Myth 1: Covered California is the Same as Medi-Cal

Many people believe that Covered California is just another name for Medi-Cal, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. While both programs aim to provide healthcare coverage, they serve different purposes and populations.

Reality: Covered California is the state’s marketplace where you can purchase private health insurance plans, often with financial assistance based on your income. Medi-Cal, on the other hand, is California’s Medicaid program, offering free or low-cost coverage to individuals and families with limited income.

Myth 2: Covered California Plans Are Low Quality

Another common myth is that the plans available through Covered California are somehow inferior to those purchased directly from insurance companies.

Reality: Covered California offers the same quality health plans that you would find if you went directly to an insurance company. The difference? Covered California provides a platform to compare different plans, and you may qualify for subsidies that lower your premium costs.

Myth 3: You Can Only Get Health Insurance During Open Enrollment

It’s a widespread belief that if you miss the Open Enrollment period, you’re out of luck until the next year.

Reality: While Open Enrollment is the primary time to sign up, you may still qualify for Special Enrollment if you experience certain life events. These can include getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage. Don’t assume you have to wait another year to get covered—check if you qualify for Special Enrollment.

Myth 4: Covered California Is Only for the Uninsured

Some think that Covered California is only for those who are currently uninsured or can’t get insurance through their job.

Reality: Covered California is for anyone who needs health insurance, whether you’re uninsured, self-employed, or looking for better options than what your employer offers. It’s designed to give all Californians access to quality health coverage, regardless of their situation.

Myth 5: Small Businesses Can't Use Covered California

Small business owners often believe that Covered California is just for individuals, and they need to look elsewhere for group health insurance plans.

Reality: Covered California offers a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) specifically designed for small businesses. This program provides a variety of plans that can help you offer your employees quality coverage, often with tax credits to reduce costs.

Conclusion

Don’t let these myths stand in the way of getting the health coverage you need. Covered California offers valuable options for both individuals and small businesses, ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare. By understanding the truth behind these myths, you can take advantage of the benefits and protections Covered California provides.