Health insurance can be confusing, but allied health insurance makes it easier for individuals and families to get quality care.
Offered by Allied National, this insurance focuses on flexible, affordable plans.
This article explains allied health insurance, its benefits, costs, and how to choose the best plan for you in 2025.
What Is Allied Health Insurance?
Allied health insurance refers to plans provided by Allied National, a trusted name in group health benefits.
These plans are designed for small businesses, individuals, and families, often through associations. They emphasize affordability and access to a wide network of providers.
Allied National partners with networks like Aetna Signature Administrators PPO, ensuring nationwide coverage. This makes allied health insurance a great choice for those seeking reliable care.
How Allied Health Insurance Works
Allied health insurance operates as a PPO plan, giving you flexibility to choose providers. In-network providers offer lower costs, while out-of-network care is covered at a higher price. You don’t need referrals to see specialists, which simplifies access to care.
Claims are often handled directly by in-network providers. Allied’s plans are funded by employers or associations, keeping premiums manageable for members.
Types of Plans Offered
Allied National offers several plan types to fit different needs. Level-funded plans combine the predictability of fully insured plans with potential cost savings. High-deductible health plans (HDHPs) pair with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for tax advantages.
Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plans meet basic ACA requirements. Allied also provides supplemental plans, like accident or critical illness coverage, for extra protection.
Benefits of Allied Health Insurance
Allied health insurance offers comprehensive coverage. Plans include hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription drugs. Mental health services and telehealth are often part of the package.
The Aetna PPO network provides access to over 1 million providers nationwide. Members enjoy wellness programs, such as discounts on gym memberships or health resources.
Coverage Details
Allied’s plans cover essential health benefits required by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Preventive care, like vaccines and screenings, is typically free with in-network providers. Emergency services, surgeries, and lab tests are also included.
Some plans offer dental or vision coverage as add-ons. Check your plan details to confirm what’s covered and any limits on services.
Costs of Allied Health Insurance
Costs depend on the plan, your age, and location. Premiums are monthly payments, while deductibles and copays affect out-of-pocket costs. In-network care has lower fees, often $20–$50 per visit.
In 2025, average premiums for allied health insurance range from $350 to $650 monthly for individuals. Out-of-network care increases expenses due to higher coinsurance.
Here’s a table comparing in-network vs. out-of-network costs for a typical Allied PPO plan:
| Service | In-Network Cost | Out-of-Network Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Care Visit | $25 copay | $80–$150 |
| Specialist Visit | $45 copay | $120–$250 |
| Hospital Stay | $500 copay | $1,500–$3,000 |
Note: Costs are approximate for 2025 and vary by plan and location.
Enrollment and Eligibility
You can access allied health insurance through employers, associations, or brokers. Small businesses with 2–50 employees often use Allied’s group plans. Individuals may join through professional or trade associations.
Open enrollment for ACA-compliant plans runs from November 1 to January 15. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) apply for events like job loss or marriage.
Finding Providers
Allied’s Aetna PPO network makes finding providers easy. Visit Allied National’s website or Aetna’s provider portal to search by zip code or specialty. The network includes doctors, hospitals, and clinics across the U.S.
Always verify a provider’s network status before booking. This helps avoid unexpected out-of-network charges.
Key Features of Allied Plans
Allied health insurance stands out for its member-focused approach. Here are some highlights:
- Wide Network: Access over 1 million providers through Aetna’s PPO.
- Flexible Plans: Options like HDHPs and MEC plans suit different budgets.
- Telehealth Access: Virtual visits for minor issues, available 24/7.
- HSA Compatibility: Save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses.
These features make Allied a solid option for diverse needs.
Comparing Allied to Other Insurance
Allied health insurance differs from HMO or EPO plans. HMOs require referrals and limit you to in-network providers. EPOs don’t cover out-of-network care, unlike Allied’s PPO plans.
Compared to other PPOs, Allied’s level-funded plans offer cost predictability. Its association-based model provides small businesses access to group rates, unlike individual Marketplace plans.
Special Considerations
Certain groups benefit uniquely from allied health insurance. Self-employed individuals can join through associations, deducting premiums on taxes. Families appreciate pediatric care coverage, including dental and vision for kids.
Travelers or those splitting time between states can use the nationwide network. Young adults not on a parent’s plan find Allied’s MEC plans affordable.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Plan
Maximize allied health insurance with these strategies. Stick to in-network providers to keep costs low. Use free preventive care to catch health issues early.
Check your plan’s formulary for covered medications. Use telehealth for quick, low-cost consultations instead of urgent care visits.
Claims and Billing
In-network providers often submit claims for you, so you only pay copays or deductibles. For out-of-network care, you may need to file claims yourself. Allied’s online portal simplifies claim submissions.
Keep medical receipts and records for reimbursements. Review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to understand what’s covered and what you owe.
Supplemental Coverage Options
Allied offers supplemental plans to enhance coverage. Accident insurance pays cash for injuries, helping with deductibles. Critical illness plans provide lump-sum payments for diagnoses like cancer.
These plans are affordable add-ons, often costing $10–$30 monthly. They’re ideal for those wanting extra financial protection.
Small Business Benefits
Allied National specializes in small business health plans. Level-funded plans let employers control costs while offering robust benefits. Employees enjoy the same PPO network as individual plans.
Businesses with 2–50 employees can offer allied health insurance without breaking the bank. Tax credits may apply for small employers, lowering costs further.
Future of Allied Health Insurance
Health insurance rules may shift with new policies. Allied National is expanding telehealth and wellness offerings to meet member needs. Changes to ACA subsidies or public options could impact plan structures.
Check Allied’s website or Healthcare.gov for updates. Review your plan each year to ensure it aligns with your health and budget.
Summary
Allied health insurance, offered by Allied National, provides flexible PPO plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. With access to Aetna’s vast network, members enjoy comprehensive coverage, including preventive care and telehealth.
Costs are manageable with subsidies and in-network providers, while level-funded and supplemental plans add value.
By understanding enrollment, benefits, and tips, you can choose a plan that fits your needs and protects your health.
FAQ
What is allied health insurance?
Allied health insurance is a PPO plan from Allied National, offering access to over 1 million providers. It covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and preventive care. Plans are available through employers or associations.
How do I find in-network providers with Allied?
Use Allied National’s website or Aetna’s provider portal to search by zip code or specialty. Confirm a provider’s network status before booking to avoid higher costs.
What types of plans does Allied offer?
Allied provides level-funded, high-deductible, and Minimum Essential Coverage plans. Supplemental options like accident or critical illness coverage are also available.
How can I lower costs with allied health insurance?
Stick to in-network providers, use free preventive care, and review your formulary. Consider high-deductible plans with HSAs or apply for ACA subsidies if eligible.
Who can enroll in allied health insurance?
Small businesses, individuals, and families can enroll through employers or associations. Open enrollment is November 1 to January 15, with Special Enrollment Periods for life events.