ARTICLE: Employer Health Insurance Vs. Individual Plans | What’s Best For You?
Employer-sponsored healthcare, also called a group plan, is the most common way that Americans get health insurance. Group plans can typically cover not only the employee but also their spouse/partner and dependent children. Another route to health insurance coverage is purchasing an individual plan, which can also be extended to cover family members. This article will outline the difference between these two options. Read from the beginning and stop when you get to the comparison chart. Then answer the questions on your worksheet.

SCAVENGER HUNT: Find Out What Marketplace Health Insurance Plans Cover
When employers sponsor their own group plans, it’s difficult to explore what each plan covers without actually working for that employer and gaining access to the information. Luckily, Marketplace plans follow rules set by the Affordable Care Act, and it’s easy to access the required benefits. Go on a “scavenger hunt” of this healthcare.gov website to find answers to these questions on your worksheet.

VIDEO: What Is Medicaid? | Medicaid Made Clear

ARTICLE: Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

VIDEO: Medicare vs Medicaid: What You NEED to Know
The second and third most common ways Americans get health insurance is through Medicaid and Medicare. Access the videos and the article about CHIP, a third government health insurance program. Then, answer the questions on your worksheet.

DIG DEEPER: If you’d like to learn more, use this National Association of Insurance Commissioners map to click on your state and check out local insurance agents. Read more about Medicaid and Medicare in Ohio.

LEARNING TARGETS:

• I can explain the pros and cons of enrolling in employer-sponsored health plans vs individual plans from the Marketplace.
• I can explore the specific coverage areas and benefits of healthcare.gov Marketplace plans.
• I understand how government healthcare programs like Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare work and who qualifies for them.
• I can investigate health insurance policies and eligibility in their states.