The Importance of Health Insurance for Truckers
The long hours and challenging conditions of being a truck driver make it difficult to eat a balanced diet, sleep well and exercise regularly. A CDC survey found that long-distance semi-truck drivers have an increased risk of medical conditions like diabetes, obesity and heart disease than other workers.
As a big-rig operator, getting the medical care you need requires dedicated truck driver health insurance coverage designed to meet your unique needs. It should have low out-of-pocket costs, cover you across multiple state line, and offer 24/7 support.
Learn why having the right coverage is vital to your health and what type of health insurance you should have as a truck driver.
Common Health Issues for Truckers
For most truckers, life on the road means long hours, irregular schedules and quick, unhealthy meals. The CDC found that 75% of truck drivers did not get enough exercise during the day. This stationary lifestyle and lack of access to healthy food choices lead to the following common health issues for drivers:
Obesity. Truck drivers are twice as likely to be obese compared to the average U.S. worker. Being overweight can increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol and sleep apnea.
Heart disease. Heart disease is more common in truck drivers, partly due to higher rates of obesity and smoking. Truckers are twice as likely to smoke and more prone to obesity compared to the average workforce, heightening the risk of issues like stroke and heart attack.
Hypertension. High blood pressure affects 26% of truck drivers. This condition can be caused by diet and stress associated with long hours on the road. It places extra strain on the blood vessels and heart, heightening the risk of heart disease and strokes.
Diabetes. The CDC found that 14% of truck drivers nationwide have diabetes, double the average U.S. working population. Diabetes can cause heart disease, kidney failure and vision complications.
Taking Care of Your Well-Being
Staying in good health as a semi-truck driver means engaging in routine preventive care and addressing underlying health issues. With the following medical care covered by insurance, you can protect your health:
Regular doctor visits. Visit your doctor every six months for a comprehensive health check-up. These visits can include blood pressure monitoring, obesity screening and lifestyle assessments to prevent chronic diseases.
Comprehensive blood tests. Have a full panel blood test once a year to detect issues like high cholesterol, diabetes or kidney problems early.
Mental health services. Use your insurance to consult with a mental health professional as needed for stress, anxiety and other psychological assessments.
Vision and hearing exams. Get your eyesight and hearing tested every two years, as these can impact safe driving and are generally covered by health insurance.
Physical therapy sessions. If you experience chronic back pain or similar issues, schedule monthly physical therapy or chiropractic sessions to alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term damage.
Why Health Insurance is So Important
Health insurance is a vital safety net for truck drivers, who face unique health challenges due to the nature of their job. The right health insurance for truck drivers ensures access to necessary medical care without financial strain. Here’s why comprehensive coverage is important for operators:
Tailored coverage. Customized truck driver health insurance is designed to meet the needs of your profession. This includes coverage for occupational hazards and long-term health issues prevalent in the industry.
Low deductibles. Many plans offer lower deductibles, making it more affordable for truck drivers to access necessary medical care without large out-of-pocket expenses. It can help you receive primary care services and medications without requiring huge upfront payments.
Reduced copays. Plans with lower copayments ease the financial burden of frequent medical visits, which is beneficial for drivers who need regular health check-ups. This encourages preventative doctor visits and screenings.
Flexible coverage across state lines. Private insurance can give you nationwide coverage, ensuring access to medical care across multiple state lines. If you travel long-distance, this is essential for emergency care.
Finding the Right Policy for Your Needs
When searching for a health insurance plan that fits your needs and budget, there are several options. From traditional health insurance to private policies and short-term coverage, here are the primary choices for trucker health benefits:
Employer-provided plans. Many trucking companies offer group insurance policies for their drivers. This type of plan typically requires a monthly premium and is tied to your employment status. Depending on the plan, it may offer limited coverages, like no out-of-state provider network
Private health insurance. Private plans, such as those offered by United National Healthcare, are the best health insurance for truck drivers looking to maximize flexibility. Private providers typically offer the most comprehensive options, letting you tailor your coverage, deductibles and extra benefits to your preferences.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Similarly to traditional plans, government marketplace policies can offer reliable coverage for standard healthcare services. While they may allow you to obtain coverage even with a pre-existing condition, these policies are typically meant for basic care rather than the unique needs of truck drivers.
Short-term health insurance plans. Short-term insurance policies offer temporary coverage and health benefits. They are best suited for transition periods, such as changing employers or to address gaps in a traditional plan’s coverage. They can be activated quickly to cover your medical needs while waiting for a new, more comprehensive plan.
Get a Healthcare Plan Suited for Truckers at United National Healthcare
United National Healthcare offers comprehensive health insurance for truck drivers and their families. We provide a range of plans with nationwide coverage and 24/7 support, suitable for Individuals and families. Contact us today to learn more about truckers’ health insurance near you and get a customized quote.
