What Is a Deductible? (And How It Affects Your Health Insurance)
A deductible is the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket for healthcare services before your health insurance starts paying.
Think of it like this: it’s your share of the cost before your plan starts to help cover bills.
💡 Real-Life Example:
Let’s say your health insurance plan has a $2,000 deductible.
You go to the doctor and get tests done. The total bill is $800.
👉 You pay the full $800 — because you haven’t hit your deductible yet.A few months later, you have another medical visit that costs $1,500.
👉 You already paid $800, so now you only owe $1,200 more to reach your $2,000 deductible.
Once you’ve paid that $2,000 total, your insurance starts sharing the cost — this is where coinsurance or full coverage kicks in, depending on your plan.
🧠 Quick Breakdown:
✅ You pay 100% until you meet your deductible.
🔁 After that, insurance helps pay (like 80% them / 20% you).
🏥 The deductible resets every year.
