Health Insurance | ASTELEGALI

The best Medicare Advantage options for managing diabetes.

1. Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs)

If you have a formal diabetes diagnosis, a Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP) is often the best choice. Unlike standard plans, C-SNPs are specifically designed for people with chronic conditions.

Tailored Networks: These plans prioritize access to specialists like endocrinologists, podiatrists (for foot care), and nutritionists.
Lower Copays: Many C-SNPs, such as those offered by UnitedHealthcare and Humana, feature $0 copays for diabetic supplies and highly reduced specialist visit fees.
Care Coordination: C-SNPs often include a care manager to help you sync your medications, diet, and doctor appointments.

2. Top National Providers for 2025-2026

While the “best” plan depends on your zip code, several national carriers consistently lead the market in diabetic support:

UnitedHealthcare: Known for its massive provider network, UHC’s 2026 plans emphasize $0 copays for Tier 1 generics (including common diabetes drugs) and $0 diabetic supplies through Optum Home Delivery.
Humana:

Health Insurance

The most effective strategies for finding affordable health insurance

November 10, 2025December 18, 2025 - by Kathryn Lunceford

1. The ACA Marketplace and Subsidies

The Health Insurance Marketplace (Healthcare.gov) remains the most critical resource for contractors. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), plans are standardized into “Metal Tiers”—Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—allowing you to balance monthly premiums against out-of-pocket costs.

Premium Tax Credits: Most self-employed individuals qualify for subsidies based on their estimated annual income. If your income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, these credits can significantly lower your monthly bill.
Cost-Sharing Reductions: If you choose a Silver plan, you may also qualify for extra savings on deductibles and copayments.

2. High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) and HSAs

If you are generally healthy and rarely visit the doctor, an HDHP might be your most affordable path. These plans offer the lowest monthly premiums available on the market.

The real “secret weapon” here is the Health Savings Account (HSA). By pairing an HDHP with …

Health Insurance

Budgeting Guide for New Parents’ Baby Costs

September 12, 2025 - by Kathryn Lunceford

Welcoming a new baby brings immeasurable joy, but it also introduces a wave of financial responsibilities that catch many new parents off guard. From unexpected medical bills to the seemingly endless stream of essential supplies, the financial reality of parenthood can feel overwhelming. Yet, with thoughtful planning and strategic preparation, you can navigate these waters with confidence.

As expecting parents, you’re already juggling numerous preparations – let the financial aspect be one less worry. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a realistic baby budget, maximizing your savings on essential items, and building a sustainable financial framework for your growing family.

Whether you’re in your first trimester or approaching your due date, these practical strategies will help you take control of your baby-related expenses and create a solid foundation for your family’s financial future.

Breaking Down the Real Cost of Having a Baby

The financial impact of welcoming a …

Health Insurance

Comprehensive Training Resources Available for Healthcare Professionals on Medical Insurance Procedures

January 16, 2024August 13, 2024 - by Kathryn Lunceford

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, staying informed and up-to-date on medical insurance procedures is crucial for healthcare professionals. Understanding the complexities of medical insurance can be challenging, but luckily, there is a wealth of training resources available to help professionals navigate this intricate system. From online courses to workshops and webinars, healthcare professionals have a variety of options to enhance their knowledge and skillset in medical insurance procedures.

Online Courses

Online courses offer a convenient and flexible way for healthcare professionals to learn at their own pace. Platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses specifically tailored to medical insurance procedures. These courses cover topics such as billing and coding, claims processing, insurance verification, and compliance regulations. Healthcare professionals can benefit from interactive modules, video lectures, and quizzes to test their knowledge and understanding of medical insurance practices.

Workshops and Seminars

Attending workshops and seminars is another …

Health Insurance

The Benefits of Online Courses for Understanding Health Insurance Policies and Coverage

November 15, 2023August 13, 2024 - by Kathryn Lunceford

In today’s complex healthcare landscape, it is more crucial than ever for individuals to have a solid understanding of health insurance policies and coverage. Online courses have emerged as an effective and accessible way to educate oneself on these important topics. These courses can provide valuable insights into the intricacies of health insurance, helping individuals make informed decisions about their coverage and benefits.

One of the primary advantages of online courses is the flexibility they offer. Unlike traditional classroom settings, online courses allow participants to access learning materials at their own convenience. This is especially beneficial for individuals with busy schedules or those who may not have access to in-person classes. By enrolling in an online course, individuals can learn about health insurance policies and coverage at their own pace, without the constraints of rigid schedules.

Moreover, online courses can provide a comprehensive overview of various health insurance options, including …