When it comes to health insurance, your choice of company matters a lot. This is because health insurance companies often differ significantly in the coverage they offer, as well as the premiums they charge and the services they provide.
All of these differences can be important when you’re trying to find the best plan to fit your needs and your budget.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of our picks for the top 5 health insurance companies in America, based on our comprehensive analysis of each company’s offerings, cost, service quality, and other factors that make up an excellent health insurance provider.
1) Anthem
Anthem is one of several Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies available to Americans, as well as one of three insurers offering Affordable Care Act plans.
For many Americans, BCBS plans are worth considering—but not necessarily at the top of your list. According to health-insurance rating firm A.M. Best, Anthem’s financial stability is below that of some other big companies like UnitedHealthcare and WellPoint; it’s also been fined repeatedly for misleading its members about how much doctors cost out-of-pocket—and has even failed to pay members their benefits when they’re due.
If a Blue Cross/Blue Shield plan isn’t your first choice, you might want to investigate further before signing up with Anthem.
2) Blue Cross Blue Shield
With a customer satisfaction rating of 73 out of 100, Blue Cross Blue Shield is often rated one of the top health insurance companies.
While they don’t have quite as many health care providers as some of their competitors, they have incredibly competitive rates and are known for their great customer service.
Even those with a lower salary can still receive coverage through BCBS at an affordable rate. Plus, if you’re going to be living abroad or traveling frequently, their Global Assist Hotline allows you to contact physicians and hospitals worldwide without leaving your home country.
3) Cigna
Cigna has long been lauded for its extremely competitive rates and policies, but one of its biggest draws is that Cigna covers acupuncture, a natural treatment derived from Eastern medicine.
The company also offers access to several insurance agents who can help you find a plan that works for your budget and situation.
In 2017, US News & World Report gave Cigna four out of five stars on its annual ranking of companies; it’s been voted as one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies six years running. Cigna also made more than $2 billion in profits last year alone—which certainly doesn’t hurt either.
4) Humana
This company has been providing health coverage for over 75 years, operating in all 50 states. With a focus on preventive care and self-management education, it’s a great choice for individuals seeking access to quality care from experienced professionals.
If you’re healthy but want to ensure you have financial protection if an illness does strike, check out Humana’s SilverSneakers fitness program or one of its many other wellness initiatives.
The company also offers dental and vision plans as well as life insurance options; its employees are eligible for 401(k) retirement plans and company stock options.
5) UnitedHealth Group
As you might expect from one of the biggest health insurance companies in the world, UnitedHealth Group is a comprehensive provider.
The company operates through four divisions: UnitedHealthcare (its primary business), Optum, LifeSynch, and WellPoint.
Through its subsidiaries, UnitedHealth Group also provides pharmacy benefits management services and offers home care management services for seniors.
Forbes gave an A+ rating to UnitedHealth Group for being able to provide quality healthcare at a reasonable price and recognizing that it’s essentially guaranteed to be profitable thanks to its huge number of customers.
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