Picking a health insurance provider has been simplified by the Affordable Care Act, but it’s still a good idea to be thorough when you’re shopping for your new health insurance policy. Use these tips to narrow down the best health insurance providers and pick your plan:

1.  Find out if you qualify for government aid. If you qualify for Medicaid or government subsidies, this may negate your need to select a health insurance provider, or it may play a role in which provider you pick.
2.  Find out if your employer offers health insurance. You may be able to save on health insurance if your employer offers coverage, but you’re likely to have less flexibility on selecting a health insurance provider.
3.  Gather information on household income and prepare a budget. Document how much you earn and how much you spend, and prepare a realistic budget for your health insurance policy.
4.  Learn about and compare plans. Use your state’s Health Insurance Marketplace to learn about and compare plans.
5.  Understand costs, including deductibles, co-payments, out-of-pocket maximums, etc. Make sure you understand all of the costs associated with the policy, including prescription costs, deductibles, co-pays and out-of-pocket maximums.
6.  Prepare a list of questions. What questions do you have about the policy? Do you need access to health care while traveling, or use a specialist or favorite family doctor? Make sure the health insurance provider meets all of your needs.
7.  Plan for the future of your family. Are you planning to get married? Is there a child in your future? Find out how your health insurance provider will affect these important future plans, including costs associated with adding a spouse or child, giving birth or other important details.
8.  Evaluate wellness incentives. Some insurers offer wellness incentives; such as reimbursement for gym memberships or defraying of preventative care costs. Evaluate these incentives when you’re shopping for an insurance provider.
9.  Review the SBC for finalist health insurance providers. Under the ACA, health insurance providers must offer a Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC). When you’ve narrowed your health insurance provider down to a few finalists, compare SBCs to pick the right provider for your needs.
10. Check reviews for the best health insurance providers. Check the Web for reviews and for help finding the best health insurance providers. Are other people happy with the provider you’re considering? Any “gotcha”s you need to consider?

A little careful planning can help you find the best health insurance provider for your family.