What Are the Types of Health Insurance?

There are two main types of health insurance – private and government-sponsored.

Private health insurance is typically purchased by an individual or family. Private health insurance can be purchased from a health insurance company, a healthcare exchange, or through an insurance agent.

Government-sponsored health insurance includes Medicare and Medicaid.

Medicare is available for people who are 65 or older, certain disabled individuals, and people with permanent kidney failure. It is funded by the government, and individuals with Medicare can use any doctor or hospital.

Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program that is available for individuals and families who fit certain eligibility requirements.