I’m 36, I live in GA (30122). I’m an independent contractor and for the past 2 years I’ve gotten my insurance through the ACA marketplace. Prior to 2021 I was (mostly) healthy and just went for the cheapest bronze plan I could find. That has been Ambetter Peachstate healthplan where I’ve had $0 premium, no deductible, $1500 max out of pocket, no charge for primary care, $5 specialist, and $0 generic prescriptions/$30 name-brand.

This past year, 2022, I’ve had to use my health insurance regularly for the first time ever and I’ve found out why its been so cheap and such good terms, its barely accepted anywhere!

I don’t know much about health insurance options. I understand deductibles and co-insurance and all those terms but I just don’t know about companies and plans. And I’ve basically never had it through an employer.

What companies to avoid? What are the best? Do I HAVE to go through the ACA? Are all ACA plans avoided by doctors, or do some have broad networks? Can I just buy a plan on my own and pay out of pocket? I’ve heard kaiser is good, can I just buy a plan from them or something like that?

See also  Medicaid, drastic change in annual income, and unable to apply on Healthcare.gov