Are you a Michigan resident in need of health insurance? Shopping for health insurance can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. From small private practices to large health systems, there are many choices available for those seeking medical care. This comprehensive guide is designed to answer your frequently asked questions about health insurance in Michigan.
Benefits of finding your Michigan Insurance Plan through eHealth
We help you make choices that fit your needs
Our online tools and filters help you make the health insurance choice that’s right for you.
You won’t pay more for the same plan
There’s no obligation for our services and you’ll pay the same price offered by insurance companies you know and trust.
Expert help at your fingertips
We’re available 24/7 by chat, email or phone.
How Health Insurance Covers Expenses
Health insurance is designed to protect you from substantial medical costs. The insurer identifies the services covered by the plan (e.g., ACA essential benefits) and the cost-sharing arrangement—which determines the portion of eligible healthcare costs the insurer will pay and the portion you will pay.
Once you buy an insurance policy, you need to pay a premium payment either monthly or annually. With this payment, you get the assurance from your insurance provider that you will receive coverage for your healthcare bills that are associated with covered conditions and scenarios. However, even with this coverage, you need to cover certain charges out-of-pocket to utilize affordable health insurance in Michigan. But don’t worry, there’s a limit on what you will be required to pay out-of-pocket for covered care.
Deductible
The deductible is a yearly sum that you have to pay for your medical costs before you are eligible to receive coverage from your insurance provider.
Copays
The copay typically becomes applicable after you have paid your deductibles. This is a flat charge against each medical service or bill.
Coinsurance
The coinsurance comes into effect after deductibles. This is a percentage of your medical bills that you cover out-of-pocket.
Out-Of-Pocket Maximum
The out-of-pocket maximums outline the annual limit you contribute in charges such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copays before your insurance starts covering a 100% of your medical bills.
Types of Michigan health insurance plans
Your healthcare needs and budget are as unique as you are, which is precisely why our Michigan plans come in a variety of price levels, each characterized by a distinct metallic rating: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These ratings offer an intuitive way to gauge the plan's cost-sharing framework.
Financial assistance to help cover health insurance costs is available for those who qualify, so it’s easier to stay on budget and on top of your health
Bronze
These plans, typically with lower monthly premiums, are geared towards those who require minimal coverage or mainly emergency services. They involve higher out-of-pocket expenses when care is needed.
Silver
Silver plans strike a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs, suitable for regular healthcare usage.
Monthly cost
Deductible
Gold
Gold plans, with higher premiums, reduce out-of-pocket costs, making them ideal for those with frequent healthcare needs.
Monthly cost
Deductible
Platinum
Platinum plans offer the most comprehensive coverage with the highest premiums but the lowest out-of-pocket costs, perfect for those with extensive healthcare requirements.
Monthly cost
Deductible
Michigan Medical Insurance Statistics
Consider the following statistics about health care coverage in Michigan:
10,034,113
Total Michigan Residents
4.6%
Total Uninsured Michigan Residents
3,649,525
Total Michigan HMO enrollment
$1,584
Avg annual employee premium in Michigan employer-sponsored plan (after employer contribution)
$2,387
Avg Michigan hospital cost per inpatient day (before insurance)
Source data according to the
Kaiser Family Foundation: Health Insurance Coverage of the Total Population, states (2007-2008), U.S. (2008); Total HMO Enrollment, July 2008; Average Single Premium per Enrolled Employee; For Employer-Based Health Insurance, 2008; Hospital Adjusted Expenses per Inpatient Day, 2007
Find a Michigan health insurance plan
Explore the diverse range of private health insurance plans available in Michigan for individuals and families. Additionally, discover Michigan small business and group health plans offered by leading insurance providers. Whether you're in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, or any location in between, take action and find the perfect plan for your unique needs.
Health insurance plans for every stage of life
Dental Insurance Plans
May have a relatively low monthly premium. Can cover everything from routine cleanings and fillings to more comprehensive procedures.
Find Dental Insurance >
Vision Insurance Plans
Can cover annual eye exams. May reduce the cost of contact lenses or glasses.
Find Vision Insurance >
Short Term Insurance Plans
Designed to provide health coverage on a temporary basis. Short-term plans offer limited coverage at affordable prices. Easy to enroll and can start in just a few days.
Find Short Term insurance >
Medicare Insurance Plans
Part A covers hospital expenses, skilled nursing facilities, hospice and home healthcare services. Part B, for a reasonable monthly premium, provides outpatient care such as doctor visits, x-rays, and preventative care. You can also shop plans that potentially reduce your costs for prescription medications.
Find Medicare Plans >Frequently asked questions
Do you have to have health insurance in Michigan?
Michigan defers to the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA), which no longer requires U.S. citizens to have health insurance coverage. Although the Personal Responsibility Payment no longer exists for people who are uninsured or underinsured, health insurance is critical protection against potential staggering out-of-pocket medical expense.
How to get health insurance in Michigan?
In Michigan, you can get health insurance during open enrollment from a wide variety of private insurers, the federal exchange or a licensed health insurance broker like eHealth. If you’ve missed open enrollment and still need coverage, Michigan residents can purchase a short-term plans with coverage for up to 185 days or enroll during a special enrollment period if you’ve experienced a qualifying life event.
What’s the most affordable health insurance in Michigan?
The cheapest health insurance in Michigan starts for as low as $137 per person for major medical plans.*
| Metal Level | Lowest Monthly Premium* |
|---|---|
| Bronze | $137 |
| Silver | $138 |
| Gold | $173 |
* This is the lowest-price Bronze plan available from eHealth in Michigan, but actual prices available depend on zip code, age, gender, and other factors. Get a personalized quote to see what may be available for you.
How much is health insurance in Michigan?
| Metal Level | Average Monthly Premium* |
|---|---|
| Bronze | $406 |
| Silver | $504 |
| Gold | $645 |
* This is the average price of a plan available from eHealth in Michigan, but actual prices available depend on zip code, age, gender, and other factors. Get a personalized quote to see what may be available for you.
What type of health insurance marketplace does Michigan utilize?
The Michigan Health Insurance Marketplace runs on a hybrid model. In this approach, the portal guides you toward insurance companies to find affordable health insurance in Michigan. However, in order to purchase these plans or enroll into government programs such as Medicare, the website directs you to HealthCare.gov, the federally-run health insurance marketplace. This model still allows you to browse through several options in regard to individual and family health insurance with ease. If you want to enroll into government-funded plans such as Medicaid, you can also find the options to do so through HealthCare.gov.
When can I enroll in an ACA-compliant plan in Michigan?
The Michigan Health Insurance Marketplace follows the federally-managed marketplace for enrollments, meaning its open enrollment period for ACA-compliant plans is also tied to this federal platform. This means that enrollments typically run from November 1 – January 15. During this period, you can explore your options for ACA health plans and choose a policy that fulfills your needs. If you happen to miss the open enrollment window, you can find a plan through a special enrollment period if you’ve experienced a qualifying life event. These events refer to life changes such as childbirth, marriage, or change of employment that has a direct effect on your ability to gain coverage or continue on your current healthcare plan.
How many options for healthcare providers are available in Michigan?
Michigan has a wide variety of healthcare providers available. From hospitals to clinics, to private practices, Michigan residents have access to healthcare services throughout the state. Some of the most well-known health systems in the state include Beaumont Health, Henry Ford Health System, and Spectrum Health. Additionally, there are many community health centers that provide healthcare services to underserved populations. With so many options available, it’s important to research and compare healthcare providers to find the right fit for your needs.
Is short-term health insurance available for purchase in Michigan?
Yes, it is. Short-term health insurance is available in Michigan, but it’s important to note that it is not considered a comprehensive health insurance plan. Short-term health insurance plans are designed to provide coverage for a limited period of time, often up to 12 months, and may not cover all essential health benefits.
What is the maximum income to qualify for Medicaid in Michigan?
The maximum income to qualify for Medicaid in Michigan varies based on family size. As of 2023, a family of four with a household income of up to $40,000 per year may qualify for Medicaid. It’s important to note that Medicaid eligibility can change based on a variety of factors, including family size and income.
Is Medicaid free in Michigan? Medicaid is not free in Michigan, but it is available at little or no cost to those who qualify based on income and other factors. Eligible individuals may have to pay a small copayment for certain services, but overall, Medicaid is designed to provide affordable healthcare coverage to those who need it most.
When did Medicaid expansion take effect in Michigan?
Michigan expanded Medicaid coverage in 2014, under the Affordable Care Act. This expansion extended Medicaid eligibility to more low-income adults in the state. As of 2023, more than 750,000 Michigan residents are covered by Medicaid.
What Michigan health insurance resources are available for Michigan residents?
Yes, there are. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offers a variety of resources to help residents understand their healthcare options. Additionally, many private health insurance companies offer resources to help individuals and families navigate the health insurance market and find the best plan for their needs.
In conclusion, Michigan residents have many options when it comes to healthcare providers and insurance plans. It’s important to research and compare options to find the right fit for your needs. Short-term health insurance plans can be a good option for those who need temporary coverage, while Medicaid provides no-cost coverage for eligible individuals. The state of Michigan provides resources and assistance for those who are looking for health insurance options. By understanding these options and resources, Michigan residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare.
