EXPERTS: MANY INSURED PA RESIDENTS CAN GET FREE PREVENTIVE SERVICES

Pennsylvanians are being urged to take a closer look at their health insurance plans to make sure they are getting the most from their coverage.

Research shows one in four people knows little about their own health plan, which can cost both money and well-being.

Joanna Rosenhein, consumer engagement manager for the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, said the group’s helpline handles thousands of calls each year from people navigating their insurance options. She noted since enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits expired, the state's marketplace, Pennie, has seen a 30% increase in enrollment in Bronze plans compared to last year.

While the plans offer lower monthly premiums, they come with higher out-of-pocket costs. She added enrollees in the plans still qualify for certain preventive services at no cost.

"One free primary care visit, one free OB-GYN visit are available to people enrolled in plans through Pennie," Rosenhein outlined. "People can also get screenings for certain diseases like diabetes or cancer if they're over a certain age or at high risk."

She noted all plans offered through Pennie include telehealth and access to urgent care and emergency rooms but coverage depends on the specific plan. People with high-deductible plans may have to pay full costs until their deductible is met. She stressed it is critical to review plan details to understand potential expenses. In most cases, urgent care is less expensive, though the emergency room is appropriate for life-threatening emergencies.

Amy Jordan, vice president of consumer experience for UnitedHealthcare, said your health plan’s digital app can do much more than list your benefits and help you find an in-network provider. The apps are now highly personalized and can help you compare costs and treatment options.

"Best step is to download an app or log on to the website and truly kind of understand what's there, and also reach out to your Member Services team," Jordan recommended. "That's a part of it, to get some of that support and understanding of the plans so that when the time comes that you need care, that you're actually able to understand exactly where to go and how to navigate."

Jordan added you need to understand how your plan is structured in terms of your premium, co-pays, deductibles, coinsurance and out-of-pocket maximum, all terms defined on the website JustPlainClear.com.

2026-02-10T01:57:40Z