National general health insurance offers affordable health plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and private insurers. Known for competitive rates and flexible options.
It helps individuals and families access quality care. This guide explores how National General works, its benefits, and how to enroll in 2025.
What Is National General Health Insurance?
National General, part of the Allstate family since 2020, provides health insurance through partnerships with private insurers and the ACA marketplace. It offers plans in select states, focusing on affordability and choice. These plans cover essential health benefits like doctor visits and hospital stays.
The company partners with networks like First Health to provide access to providers. National general health insurance is ideal for those seeking marketplace or short-term plans. It’s backed by Allstate’s reputation for reliable customer service.
How National General Health Insurance Works
National General plans require a monthly premium for coverage. In return, they pay for medical expenses like preventive care, prescriptions, and emergencies. You may have copays or deductibles based on your plan.
Most plans use a preferred provider organization (PPO) network, like First Health, for lower costs. You can manage your plan online or through customer service. Always check your plan’s network and coverage details.
Types of Plans Offered
National general health insurance includes ACA-compliant marketplace plans and short-term health plans. Marketplace plans cover essential benefits, while short-term plans offer temporary coverage. Both vary in cost and flexibility.
ACA plans include Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers, balancing premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Short-term plans are ideal for coverage gaps but may exclude benefits like maternity care. Check plan details to match your needs.
Key Features of National General Health Insurance
National General offers several benefits for policyholders. These features make their plans appealing:
- Flexible Networks: Access to First Health’s PPO network with over 1.2 million providers.
- Affordable Options: Competitive premiums, especially with subsidies.
- Customer Support: 24/7 assistance through phone or online portals.
These features ensure accessible and cost-effective care.
Who Can Enroll in National General Plans?
Residents in states where National General operates, like Texas or Florida, can enroll. You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and not covered by Medicare or Medicaid. Marketplace plans are available for individuals and families.
Enrollment occurs during the ACA open enrollment period (November 1 to January 15) or special enrollment for life events. Short-term plans have more flexible enrollment. Contact National General to confirm state availability.
Benefits of National General Health Insurance
National general health insurance offers affordable premiums, especially with ACA subsidies. Plans cover preventive care, like vaccinations, at no extra cost with in-network providers. The large PPO network ensures access to trusted doctors and hospitals.
Policyholders benefit from Allstate’s reliable customer service. Online tools simplify finding providers and managing claims. Short-term plans provide flexibility for those between jobs or waiting for other coverage.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
National General’s short-term plans may not cover pre-existing conditions or essential benefits like maternity care. Marketplace plans are limited to specific states, reducing options for some. High-deductible plans can mean high upfront costs.
Out-of-network care may increase expenses, so check provider networks. Short-term plans don’t qualify for ACA subsidies. Review plan terms to avoid coverage gaps or unexpected costs.
Costs of National General Plans in 2025
Costs vary by plan type, state, and age. In 2025, marketplace premiums average $350 to $600 monthly for a 40-year-old. Short-term plans may cost $100 to $300 monthly but offer less coverage.
Here’s a sample of 2025 marketplace plan costs for an individual:
| Plan Type | Monthly Premium | Deductible | Copay (Doctor Visit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $350–$450 | $7,000 | $50 |
| Silver | $450–$550 | $4,000 | $30 |
| Gold | $550–$600 | $2,000 | $20 |
Subsidies can lower costs significantly.
How to Enroll in National General Health Insurance
Visit HealthCare.gov to enroll in National General’s ACA marketplace plans. Create an account, enter income and household details, and compare plans. Open enrollment runs from November 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025.
For short-term plans, contact National General directly or through a broker. Provide personal details and verify state availability. A licensed agent can guide you through the process.
Using the First Health Network
National General often uses First Health’s PPO network, offering access to over 6,400 hospitals. Check your insurance card for the First Health logo. Use www.firsthealthlbp.com or call (800) 226-5116 to find in-network providers.
In-network providers reduce copays and deductibles. Always confirm a provider’s status before appointments. This ensures maximum savings on medical care.
Short-Term Health Plans
National General’s short-term plans are ideal for temporary coverage needs, like job transitions. They last from one month to a year, with flexible enrollment. These plans are cheaper but cover fewer services than ACA plans.
They may not include pre-existing conditions or essential benefits like mental health care. Check plan details to ensure they meet your needs. Short-term plans don’t qualify for ACA subsidies.
Subsidies and Financial Assistance
ACA marketplace plans from National General qualify for premium tax credits. These reduce monthly costs for incomes between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. Cost-sharing reductions lower deductibles and copays for eligible households.
Apply through HealthCare.gov with accurate income details to maximize subsidies. Short-term plans don’t qualify for financial help. Check eligibility to make coverage more affordable.
Medicaid as an Alternative
Medicaid is an option for low-income residents, covering medical costs with minimal fees. In states where National General operates, Medicaid may cover those ineligible for marketplace subsidies. Eligibility depends on income, typically up to 138% of the federal poverty level.
Apply through your state’s Medicaid office or HealthCare.gov. Medicaid covers essential benefits, including preventive care. It’s a cost-effective alternative to private plans.
Employer-Sponsored Plans
Some employers partner with National General for group health plans. These often have lower premiums due to employer contributions. Coverage includes essential benefits and access to First Health’s network.
Check with HR for enrollment details and plan options. Ensure your preferred providers are in-network. Update your plan if adding dependents like a spouse or child.
Special Enrollment Periods
If you miss open enrollment, special enrollment periods apply for life events like marriage or job loss. You have 60 days to enroll in a marketplace plan. Provide proof, like a job loss letter, when applying.
Special enrollment also applies if you lose Medicaid. Contact HealthCare.gov or National General for assistance. Quick action prevents coverage gaps.
Tips for Maximizing Your Plan
Use in-network providers to save on costs. Schedule free preventive care, like annual checkups, to stay healthy. Pair an HDHP with an HSA to save tax-free for medical expenses.
Review your plan annually to ensure it fits your needs. Use National General’s online tools or call customer service for claims or provider questions. Keep your insurance card handy for appointments.
National General for Families
National General’s family plans cover spouses and children under 26. These include pediatric care, vaccinations, and preventive services. Subsidies can lower costs for eligible families.
Check if your family’s doctors are in-network using First Health’s tools. Apply through HealthCare.gov or your employer. Family plans ensure comprehensive care for all members.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is choosing a short-term plan without checking coverage limits. Not verifying provider networks can lead to high out-of-network costs. Always compare plans carefully.
Missing enrollment deadlines can delay coverage. Inaccurate income details affect subsidy eligibility. Review plan terms to avoid unexpected expenses or gaps.
Contacting National General
For questions, call National General’s customer service at (888) 781-0585, available weekdays. Check your insurance card for plan-specific numbers. Their website, www.nationalgeneral.com, offers online support and provider searches.
Keep your member ID ready when calling. For network issues, contact First Health at (800) 226-5116. Quick contact resolves claims or coverage issues efficiently.
Is National General Health Insurance Right for You?
National general health insurance suits those in participating states seeking affordable ACA or short-term plans. It’s ideal for individuals or families needing flexible networks and competitive premiums. Those with chronic conditions benefit from comprehensive marketplace plans.
Evaluate your health needs, budget, and provider preferences before choosing. Subsidies and First Health’s network add value. Contact National General or a broker for personalized guidance.
Summary
National general health insurance provides affordable coverage through ACA marketplace and short-term plans in select states. With access to First Health’s PPO network, it offers flexibility and cost savings.
Enrolling during open enrollment or special periods ensures coverage, while subsidies reduce costs. By using in-network providers and understanding plan limits, you can maximize benefits and protect your health in 2025.
FAQ
What is national general health insurance?
National General offers health plans through the ACA marketplace and short-term options. They cover essentials like doctor visits and use First Health’s PPO network. Plans are available in select states.
Who can enroll in national general health insurance?
Residents in states like Texas or Florida, not on Medicare or Medicaid, can enroll. Apply during open enrollment (November 1 to January 15) or special enrollment. Check state availability with National General.
What does national general health insurance cover?
Marketplace plans cover essential benefits like preventive care and hospital stays. Short-term plans cover less, often excluding pre-existing conditions. Check plan details for specifics.
How much do national general plans cost in 2025?
Marketplace premiums range from $350 to $600 monthly for individuals. Short-term plans cost $100 to $300 but offer less coverage. Subsidies can lower marketplace costs.
How do I contact national general health insurance?
Call (888) 781-0585 for customer service or check your insurance card for specific numbers. Visit www.nationalgeneral.com for online support. First Health’s number is (800) 226-5116 for network issues.