Illinois Health Insurance
Find the right health insurance policy for you.
Written by
Steve is a financial services expert who has dedicated himself to the insurance industry for the last 5+ years. Steve is a key contributor to TrustedChoice.com.
Illinois is the sixth most populous state in the U.S., home to over 12 million people. Unfortunately, 22% of them don’t carry health insurance. Navigating health insurance can be difficult, especially if you need to address specific health concerns, but that shouldn’t be a deterrent to finding the right kind of coverage.
Independent agents in the Trusted Choice® network can find Illinois health insurance coverage customized coverage for your unique needs. These agents work with several reputable insurers, not just one – and they have access to the best policies on the market. Contact a local independent agent for personalized assistance and a variety of Illinois medical insurance quotes.
- Illinois is ranked as the 30th most healthy state
- Preventable hospitalizations decreased over the past 5 years
- 1 in 5 adults smoke
- 1 in 4 adults binge drink
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Why Do I Need Health Insurance?
If you’re chronically ill or have a regular need for prescriptions and doctor visits, you understand your need for medical insurance coverage. But if you’re living a healthy lifestyle, what’s the point of paying for health insurance? Here are a few things to consider:
- Quality Health Care: When you have health insurance, you have direct access to quality health care. If you don’t have health insurance, visiting a doctor can be out of the question.
- Cost: Without insurance, even a simple doctor’s visit can cost close to $300. The average stay in a hospital bed comes close to $6,000. With health insurance, much of this cost can be covered by your insurer.
- Long Term Health: If you don’t have health insurance, you might put off going to the doctor. Waiting for treatment might cause your condition to worsen, and the cost of your medications and care could rise very quickly. With insurance, you’ll have help paying for the regular medical care that can save you money in the long run.
Illinois Health Insurance Options
In Illinois, you have several coverage options:
- Employer program
- Individual health insurance
- Public programs
If you can get coverage through your employer, this is your best option, as it is affordable for individuals and families. Even small businesses may offer plans, but you have to work at least 25 hours/week to be eligible.
Individual Insurance Options
Individual Illinois health insurance plans can be expensive. Insurance companies are allowed to exclude coverage for certain conditions, and plans are not standardized under Illinois law. You must be a resident of the state or a documented immigrant to be eligible for individual plans. Prices are going to vary based on your coverage and the deductible you choose.
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Our independent agents shop around to find you the best coverage.
Public Health Insurance Options for Pre-Existing Conditions
If you have a pre-existing condition, you have two public program options in Illinois
Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan (CHIP): CHIP provides coverage for inpatient and outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription drugs as well as several other important benefits. You cannot be denied coverage for your pre-existing condition and you must be a legal Illinois resident. Plans can cost anywhere from $25 to over $2,000 depending on your coverage.
Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (IPXP): IPXP covers a wide variety of benefits, including hospital and preventive care as well as prescription drug coverage. To apply, you must have been uninsured for at least 6 months and be a legal U.S. and Illinois resident. Depending on your age, location and smoker status, plans range from $75-$800. Additionally, if you are considered low income, there are two Illinois public programs that can help you:
Medicaid: Covers a wide of health benefits but also provides dental, vision and prescription drug coverage. Benefits can be tailored for specific circumstances like breast cancer, AIDS, and pregnancy. Pre-existing health conditions are covered but you must meet a certain income level based on the federal poverty limit.
Family Care: This Illinois-specific program is targeted to parents or caretakers who live with children age 18 or younger. It will cover doctor visits, hospital care and prescription drugs, but a co-pay may be required. Costs will not exceed $5 per visit.
Illinois also has specific programs that assist women, seniors, the disabled and veterans, but if your profile consists of multiple categories, finding the right plan can be tough.
Get Illinois Medical Insurance Quotes and Save
Rather than spend your valuable time comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies online or over the phone, contact a local independent agent in the Trusted Choice network. Unlike “captive” agents at most insurance companies, independent agents have business relationships with several reputable insurers and can compile several options for you to choose from.
No matter your needs or budget, member agents have the best access to Illinois health insurance policies. Contact an agent today to get the best healthcare on the market.