Why Do I Need Health Insurance, Even If I’m Healthy?

After an unprecedented year in the middle of a global pandemic, most people are aware of how important our health is. For those who are healthy, though, it can be easy to wonder why you might need insurance. The reality is that many countries are experiencing inflation, goods are harder to find since the pandemic, and many people have experienced job changes; something that’s cost many their insurance. If you’re healthy and wondering if you should look into a new health plan or aren’t sure why you need health coverage, read on for a few things to consider.

Being Prepared

One of the top reasons even healthy people look into health insurance from a quality place like iSelect.com.au is because they want to be prepared when unexpected illnesses come up. The fact is that having health insurance coverage can save you thousands of dollars a year should you get sick unexpectedly. In the United States, for example, where there is no universal health care, being diagnosed with COVID-19 can mean time in the hospital, lost wages, and a serious hit to the wallet. While you might be healthy one day, you could find yourself in an emergency room the next.

Many people struggle with the decision of whether to get health insurance coverage because they struggle to pay the monthly premiums. While it might be true that paying for an insurance plan you believe you won’t use is a hard pill to swallow, so too are those unexpected medical expenses. Like it or not, the best way to protect yourself from big medical bills is enrollment in a health insurance plan either through your country’s universal care, the marketplace in the United States, Medicare or Medicaid. Doing this will give you peace of mind should you find yourself in an emergency.

Lowering Risks

In signing up with a health care plan, you’ll be putting yourself in the position of having a health care provider who knows you and your history. Even if you’re healthy, it’s a great idea to have a licensed doctor or healthcare team who knows your history with things like sore throats, minor fevers, asthma, and more. By being connected to a team with whom you have an established relationship, you’ll be more likely to get help early on into any illness that comes along.

Preventative Care

No matter what type of health insurance you go with, your ability to stay connected to your healthcare team will also help by way of preventative medicine. Furthermore, because many health insurance plans offer incentives, even a healthy person could be surprised to learn about wellness program perks. For example, there are many insurance companies that pay for gym memberships, eyeglasses, and more. When deciding whether to get a health plan, consider the lesser-known perks.

Peace of Mind

Like it or not, life isn’t always predictable. COVID-19 showed the world just how vulnerable we all are at any given time. Doing what you can to avoid financial risk and engage in preventative care efforts is a great way to give yourself peace of mind and overall mental wellness no matter how healthy you feel now.

At the end of the day, only you can determine the coverage options best for you. Whether you opt for long-term care insurance, plan to pay those rare emergency room visits out of pocket, or simply can’t afford to be insured at this time, one of the best things you can do to protect your health is to live a healthy lifestyle. From engaging in regular acts of self-care to keeping an open mind about coverage options, you’ll put yourself in the position of a healthier and more positive future for years to come.