ST. PAUL, Minn.—For Minnesotans enrolled in a health plan for 2020, it is important to understand the basics of your health insurance policy. This way, you can take full advantage of your coverage and feel confident about seeking care. To help, MNsure is sharing five ways to make the most of your health insurance:
- Take advantage of comprehensive coverage:
All plans available through MNsure include /shop-compare/about-plans/esb/index.jspessential health benefits such as coverage for emergency care, doctor visits and prescriptions, hospitalizations for surgery, overnight stays, mental health services and more. Additionally, preventive care, like check-ups, screenings and vaccinations, are free (no co-pays or coinsurance) when you use in-network providers.
- Know your provider network:
Determining what health care providers and health care facilities are /current-customers/use-coverage/your-network/index.jspin your network is important. Before you make an appointment or fill a prescription, check to see if the doctor, pharmacy or other provider you want to use is in your health plan's network. Using providers in your /shop-compare/networks/index.jsphealth plan’s network will likely keep your health care costs lower.
- Understand your health care costs:
Health insurance covers some of your medical expenses if you are sick or injured. Make sure you understand the /current-customers/use-coverage/costs/index.jspkey components of cost sharing between you and your health insurance plan. This includes things like co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Want more detailed information about your specific plan? Your /current-customers/use-coverage/sbc/index.jspsummary of benefits and coverage details the benefits of your plan and what it covers. You can also reach out to your insurance company with additional questions.
- Keep your account up to date:
It's necessary to /current-customers/manage-account/index.jspupdate your MNsure account if any of your information changes. That could include a new address, changes to your income or additions to your family. You need to report any changes that affect your enrollment or your eligibility for financial help within 30 days of the change. If you want to adjust the amount of tax credits applied to your monthly premium, or if you need to cancel coverage for your entire household, you can do so by logging in to your online account--no call needed.
In addition to updating your personal account information, it's important to remember to /current-customers/manage-account/payment/index.jsppay your monthly premium to your insurance company and submit requested verifications to MNsure on-time in order maintain your coverage.
- Check out helpful resources:
MNsure.org has a variety of information available to both new and current customers, including a "/current-customers/use-coverage/index.jspUse your Coverage" page, which outlines tips to getting started and more. You can also visit your health insurance company's website to find out more information about your plan and offerings.
Please note: when you receive mail from your insurance company or MNsure, be sure to read it carefully. If you have questions, call the number listed in the letter for further clarification.
For Minnesotans enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare, please visit the Department of Human Services' website for new member information.
MNsure's seventh open enrollment period ran from November 1, 2019, through December 23, 2019. Minnesotans who experience a qualifying life event, such as having a baby, getting married, or losing their employer-sponsored health insurance may be eligible for a special enrollment period.
