This content is for general informational purposes and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Healthcare rules and costs change annually. Last reviewed: January 1, 2025. Always verify current details with your insurer, employer, or a licensed healthcare navigator.
Marketplace Plan
Health insurance plans sold through government-run exchanges under the ACA.
Full Definition
Marketplace plans (also called exchange plans) are sold through HealthCare.gov (federal) or state-run exchanges. All plans cover essential health benefits and cannot deny coverage for pre-existing conditions. Plans are categorized by metal tiers: Bronze (lowest premium, highest cost-sharing), Silver, Gold, and Platinum (highest premium, lowest cost-sharing). Premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions are available based on income.
Real-World Example
A 35-year-old freelancer earns $40,000/year. On HealthCare.gov, they qualify for a premium tax credit that reduces a Silver plan's premium from $450 to $180/month.
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Top Providers
Companies that offer this plan type. Click any card to visit their official website.
UnitedHealthcare
uhc.com
Largest US health insurer. Offers HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans through employers and the ACA marketplace.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
bcbs.com
Nationwide network of independent BCBS companies covering all 50 states. Offers HMO, PPO, POS, and HDHP plans.
Aetna (CVS Health)
aetna.com
National insurer offering HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans through employers and the marketplace.
Cigna Healthcare
cigna.com
Global health services company offering HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans, with strong international coverage.
Humana
humana.com
Major insurer offering PPO, HMO, and HDHP plans through employers and the marketplace.
Kaiser Permanente
kaiserpermanente.org
Integrated HMO with its own hospitals and doctors across 8 states + D.C. Known for coordinated, affordable care.
Elevance Health (Anthem)
elevancehealth.com
One of the largest BCBS licensees. Offers HMO, PPO, EPO, POS, and HDHP plans across many states.
Oscar Health
hioscar.com
Tech-focused insurer offering HMO and EPO marketplace plans with virtual care and a $0 copay primary care model.
Ambetter (Centene)
ambetterhealth.com
ACA marketplace-focused insurer offering low-cost HMO and EPO plans in many states.
Molina Healthcare
molinahealthcare.com
Specializes in Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans for low- to moderate-income individuals and families.
Centene Corporation
centene.com
Largest Medicaid managed care organization in the US, operating under brand names like Ambetter, WellCare, and others.
Plan availability varies by state and employer. Always verify current offerings directly with the provider.
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