Exploring the Best Health Insurance Options for Truckers
Trucking is a pillar of the national economy, supporting over 2.2 million jobs. However, it is also one of the most stressful and dangerous occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of fatalities in the trucking industry was 1,620 in 2022. This number is higher than in other professions like construction or mining.
Despite the risks, as many as 15% of truckers in the United States do not have health insurance coverage, compared to 10% of the average working population. Among those that do, many have plans or options unsuitable for the unique challenges of trucking. Explore the best health insurance for truck drivers and find a plan that meets your needs.
Health Insurance Options for Truckers
When looking for health insurance for truck drivers, there are a few options to consider. These include private, government and employer-sponsored plans:
Government Marketplace Plans
These plans, instated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), offer varying coverage levels, including Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Each level represents a different percentage of health insurance cost coverage, ranging from 60% to 90%.
The higher the level you choose, the more comprehensive the coverage. High-level plans may result in higher monthly premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs for regular care. For instance, if you are in good health with minimal medical needs, you might select a lower-level plan to keep costs down. If you need frequent medical care, you could choose a higher-level plan but pay more monthly premiums.
The availability of these plans can vary based on your ZIP code, affecting the number and type of plans offered.
Employer-Sponsored Coverage
Employment-based coverage is one of the most common health insurance plans in the United States. Traditional employer-sponsored plans cover a portion of the premiums, but the cost of an individual and family health insurance plan through your workplace can still be high.
In 2023, it was about $8,435 per year in premiums for an individual health insurance plan and $23,968 for an annual family plan.
Plan types, flexible options and medical expense coverage vary from employer to employer. This means you only have access to the provider and its network, which could be problematic if it doesn’t cover you out-of-state.
Additionally, employer-sponsored coverage is directly tied to your employment status. For example, if you intend to work for a different trucking company or plan to become self-employed, you may lose your current plan.
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance refers to long-term coverage not tied to your employment status or a government plan. The private health insurance marketplace, which includes companies like United National Healthcare, offers a comprehensive selection of truck driver health insurance plans, options, deductibles and benefits.
Private insurance covers medical services like doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, preventive care and emergency services for truck operators. It also provides:
Medical cost protection while on the road
Short-notice appointment availability
Extended hospital selections
Freedom to choose your own physician nationwide
24/7 service and support
Discounts for an affordable private health insurance plan
Tailored plans offering flexible coverage.
Nationwide coverage, allowing access to care in any state
Additionally, unlike other plans, you don’t need to wait for an open enrollment period to start a new plan. You can also select from private short-term health insurance plans for temporary coverage. A short-term plan covers you if you’re waiting to activate a new plan or need coverage when switching jobs.
What to Ask When Speaking to an Insurer
As you explore various insurance plans, speak with a representative to get more information about the specifics of each policy. Agents at United National Healthcare can help you determine what type of health insurance a truck driver should have, understand the cost of different plans and answer coverage-related questions to help you choose the right policy.
Here are a few frequently asked questions to discuss when speaking to an insurance specialist:
Are pre-existing conditions covered? Determine whether health issues you already have, like diabetes or heart disease, are included in the coverage so you can maintain continuous care.
What’s covered in preventive care? Clarify whether services like routine physicals or vaccinations are part of the plan, as these are important for long-term health maintenance, especially for truckers who are often on the road.
How do I file claims remotely? Ask about the process of submitting a claim when traveling across state lines. This ensures you can receive coverage while away from home, particularly in urgent situations.
What is the overall cost of the plan? Our agents can help you determine the cost of different plans, including premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. This clearly explains how much you should expect to pay for your trucker insurance plan.
Get Insurance Coverage Tailored for Truck Drivers at United National Healthcare
United National Healthcare offers comprehensive health insurance for truck drivers and their families with a wide range of options and conveniences. Tailor your plan to your budget and receive nationwide coverage with 24/7 support, ensuring you can receive the care you need no matter where you work. Contact us today to receive a customized quote.
