Silver Health Plan VS Bronze Health Plan: Which is Better?
With the Affordable Care Act, AKA ObamaCare, going into full effect starting January 1, 2014 many people are wondering whether the Bronze Plan or Silver Plan is right for them. We’ve broken down the two “metal” plans to help you make a decision when the Healthcare Exchange’s open enrollment ranges from October 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014.
Below is the most accurate information available. Since individual states and insurance providers are still trying to understand this brand new law, the information below is subject to change and we will be updating as details becomes official.
Plan Overviews
The comparison of the Bronze Plan and Silver Plan below is for families and individuals, click here to learn more about ObamaCare for Small Business Owners.
This information does not include the two types of federal subsidies: premiums and cost-sharing, click here if you want to learn Are You Qualified for ObamaCare Premium Subsidies? or if interested to learn, Are You Qualified for Healthcare Exchange Cost-Sharing Subsidies?
| Benefits* | Bronze | Silver |
| Deductible | $5,000 Med/Rx | $2,000 Med |
| Preventive | $0 | $0 |
| Doctor’s Office Visits | $60 for first 3 | $45 |
| Specialist | $70 *after deductible | $65 |
| Generic Rx | $25 or less *after deductible | $25 or less |
| Brand RX | $50 *after deductible | $50 *after $500 Rx deduct |
| Lab Testing | 30% *after deductible | $45 |
| X-ray | 30% *after deductible | $65 |
| ER Visit | $300 *after deductible | $250 *after deductible |
| Urgent Care | $120 *after deductible | $90 |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $6,350/$12,700 (ind/fam) | $6,350/$12,700 (ind/fam) |
| Details | Bronze Plan | Silver Plan |
*California was the first to release its Healthcare Exchange details and much of the copay information we know so far are based on their figures. For information about specific details of health plans in your state call 800-930-7956.
Silver is the better choice than Bronze, if you can afford it, because of its lower deductible, more benefits before hitting the deductible, and the only plan that is eligible for cost-sharing subsidies. Click here to compare the Bronze Plan, Silver Plan, Gold Plan, and Platinum Plan side-by-side.
Choosing the Right Metal Plan Checklist
- First find out about whether you qualify for federal premium subsidies and/or federal cost-sharing subsidies.
- Actual monthly cost
- Actual costs for services
- Based on your medical history which plan offers you the best coverage.
This is where we can help you out. Not only can we figure out your monthly premium, but can find out if you qualify for subsidies. Click here to contact a Medicoverage agent to get started.
Comments and Questions
Click to leave a CommentComment from Julie Wilson on July 03, 2013
I need help with the plans