Feeling overwhelmed by the options?
You can count on KidCare to help you better understand what to consider when choosing the right health care coverage for your child.
Health Insurance 101
We’re here to help empower you to make informed decisions about your child's coverage.
Navigating the world of health insurance can be overwhelming — especially when it comes to making the right choice based on your family's needs and circumstances. Having high-quality health care coverage helps you prioritize your child's health and well-being and lessens the worry about getting stuck with large medical bills.
Know Before You Owe
When kids get sick or hurt, parents act fast and understandably so, but not knowing where to go for care or how coverage works can lead to unnecessary stress, long wait times and surprise medical bills.
Understanding your health insurance can help you:
- Avoid unexpected costs
- Get care in the right place at the right time
- Reduce unnecessary emergency room visits
- Keep your child healthier year-round
A little knowledge now can make a big difference later.
Key Health Insurance Terms
Understanding key health insurance terms is the first step toward feeling confident about your child’s health care coverage options.
Premium
A set monthly fee you pay for insurance coverage
Tip: Choosing a plan with a slightly higher monthly premium but no deductible can help prevent unexpected expenses when you go to appointments.
Deductible
The yearly amount you must spend before your insurance will begin covering costs
Tip: Pay attention to the annual deductible. You MUST spend this amount before your insurance covers expenses. With Florida KidCare, there is a $0 deductible.
Copay
A flat fee you pay at the time of service each time you go to your doctor, fill a prescription or receive other medical care
Tip: With Florida KidCare, copays are never more than $10.
Coinsurance
A cost-sharing percentage you pay for health care after your deductible is met
Tip: There is no coinsurance with Florida KidCare.
In-Network Provider
A health care provider (doctor, hospital, or facility) contracted by your health plan to provide services.
Tip: Visiting an in-network provider typically has lower out-of-pocket costs.
Out-of-Network Provider
A health care provider (doctor, hospital or facility) not contracted by your health plan to provide services
Tip: Seeing an out-of-network provider usually costs more.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
The highest amount you'll have to pay for medical expenses in a year
Tip: With CHIP coverage through Florida KidCare, your out-of-pocket costs are limited to 5% of your family’s gross annual income each plan year.
Preventive Care
Services designed to prevent illness and keep your child healthy
Tip: No copay is required for preventive care services with Florida KidCare.
Emergency Care
Immediate treatment for serious injuries or illnesses
Tip: If you're unsure whether or not to take your child to the ER, Florida KidCare health plans have 24/7 telehealth services to help answer your health questions any time.
Health Insurance (Made Simple)
Being uninsured or underinsured can be costly. Without coverage, even a routine doctor's visit or minor injury can lead to unexpected medical bills. Health insurance protects families from medical debt and makes care more affordable. Here are a few ways to prioritize your child's health without breaking the bank:
Establish a Medical Home. A medical home is your child’s pediatrician or regular doctor. Having one means your child has:
- Consistent care
- Someone who knows your child’s health history
- Fewer last-minute ER visits
Check in on your child's health. Routine checkups and screenings help catch issues early — before they become emergencies.
Remember, not every health issue is an emergency. Many ER visits happen because:
- it's after hours
- it's hard to judge the severity in the moment
- parents want quick reassurance
That’s completely understandable—but knowing when to visit your child's doctor, urgent care or the emergency room can save time, money and stress.
Do you know where to go when it matters most? Take the “Know Where to Go” quiz to test your knowledge.
Explainer Video Series: Watch and Learn
Learn more about some of the key factors to consider when selecting a health insurance plan and a medical home for your child.