AS HEALTH COSTS RISE, MA RESIDENTS SEEK INSURANCE EDUCATION

Health care advocates in Massachusetts say understanding the details of your health insurance plan can help you save money down the road.

Polls show Americans are increasingly concerned about the rising cost of health care as premiums through the Affordable Care Act have doubled or even tripled in some areas.

Tanya Poulos, the lead ACA insurance navigator with the Community Health Center of Franklin County, said it’s important to read a plan’s Summary of Benefits and Coverage, which breaks down the cost of real-life events like pregnancy or emergency room visits.

"That document literally shows you what your out-of-pocket costs may look like," said Poulos, "and it gives you a realistic picture of how things are going to work before you arrive at that situation."

She said understanding how a plan is structured, along with copays and deductibles, can help you better estimate costs for the year.

Many insurance companies also offer new digital tools, including apps and online portals, with real-time spending tracking, provider comparisons and on-demand support.

Many employers invest heavily in wellness benefits, which are often underutilized despite serving as a form of preventive care.

Surveys show up to 40% of employees are unaware of what's available – which could mean they're passing up gym memberships, nutrition counseling or smoking cessation support.

Amy Jordan, vice president of consumer experience at UnitedHealthcare, said many companies will work with insurance providers to find the best ways to get the word out.

"We can partner with our employers, to make sure that we’re getting the right message in front of the right people to ensure that those benefits are made aware to them," said Jordan. "And so, it’s really a partnership opportunity with our employers, to ensure that we’re able to deliver that information."

Jordan said figuring out mental health coverage can also be challenging and that employers are investing in resources to remove any barriers for people seeking care.

Many insurance plans offer both in-person and virtual visits, even 24-7 behavioral health coaching, to help people experiencing a mental health crisis.

2026-02-09T01:12:35Z