Top 12 Private Health Insurance Providers Compared
By Dante Holloway | Published: 2024-10-27 | Category: Private Health Insurance
About Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance refers to coverage plans offered by non-governmental organizations, providing individuals and families access to medical services. These plans vary widely in cost, coverage levels, and provider networks.
How We Tested
Providers were evaluated based on analysis of plan variety, network size and accessibility, customer satisfaction ratings, digital tools, and overall value proposition. Scores reflect a composite assessment derived from publicly available data and industry reports.
Scoring Criteria
- → Plan Variety & Flexibility
- → Network Size & Access
- → Customer Service Reputation
- → Digital Experience (Website/App)
- → Preventive Care Coverage
- → Overall Value
The Best Private Health Insurance
HMO & PPO Plans
By Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC)
Largest customer-owned health insurer, operating Blue Cross Blue Shield plans in five states (IL, MT, NM, OK, TX).
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: HMO, PPO, EPO, POS
- ✓Coverage Area: Regional (IL, MT, NM, OK, TX), plus BCBS BlueCard access
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, Well onTarget program
- ✓Digital Tools: Blue Access for Members portal and app
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Strong BCBS network within its operating states.
- + Customer-owned structure (non-profit motive).
- + Good range of plan options.
Cons
- - Service quality can vary.
- - Geographically limited to its five states (though BlueCard helps).
Verdict
"A major BCBS licensee offering robust plans and networks for residents and employers in its five operating states."
Individual & Family Plans
By Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Non-profit regional insurer focused on New England states, known for high member satisfaction and quality.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: HMO, PPO, POS
- ✓Coverage Area: Regional (MA, ME, NH, CT)
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, comprehensive offerings
- ✓Digital Tools: Member portal and app
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pros
- + High customer satisfaction and quality ratings.
- + Strong regional network in New England.
- + Focus on member health and wellness.
Cons
- - Limited geographic coverage outside New England.
- - Can be more expensive than national carriers.
Verdict
"A top regional choice for residents of New England seeking high-quality coverage and excellent member support."
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PPO & HMO Plans
By Elevance Health (formerly Anthem)
One of the largest health benefits companies, operating Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in numerous states.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: PPO, HMO, EPO, POS
- ✓Coverage Area: Operates BCBS plans in 14 states, plus other brands
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, often via Sydney Health app
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, integrated programs
- ✓Digital Tools: Sydney Health app and member portals
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Extensive network access via BCBS affiliation.
- + Wide range of plan designs.
- + Strong digital tools (Sydney Health).
Cons
- - Customer service varies by region.
- - Complexity due to operating under multiple brands (Anthem BCBS).
Verdict
"A major player offering strong network access and plan variety, particularly in states where it operates as Anthem BCBS."
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Medicaid & Marketplace Plans
By Molina Healthcare
Focuses primarily on government-sponsored healthcare programs (Medicaid, Medicare) and Marketplace plans.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: Primarily HMO
- ✓Coverage Area: Select states
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes
- ✓Wellness Programs: Varies by state/plan
- ✓Digital Tools: Member portal available
Scorecard (Overall: 6.0 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Specializes in affordable care options.
- + Significant presence in Medicaid and Marketplace.
- + Experience serving low-income populations.
Cons
- - Limited plan options outside government programs.
- - Networks are often narrow.
- - Customer service can be inconsistent.
Verdict
"A primary option for individuals qualifying for Medicaid or seeking basic, affordable Marketplace plans in specific states."
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Individual & Family Plans
By Oscar Health
Technology-focused insurer aiming for a simpler user experience, primarily offering EPO plans through the Marketplace.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: Primarily EPO, HMO
- ✓Coverage Area: Select states/markets
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, core feature with $0 virtual primary care
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, rewards for step tracking
- ✓Digital Tools: Highly rated, user-friendly app and website
Scorecard (Overall: 7.0 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Excellent digital experience and app.
- + Focus on telehealth and virtual care.
- + Simple plan structures.
Cons
- - Limited geographic availability.
- - Networks can be restrictive (EPO).
- - Relatively new compared to established insurers.
Verdict
"A good choice for tech-savvy individuals in its service areas who prioritize a modern digital experience and telehealth access."
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Marketplace Plans (Ambetter)
By Centene Corporation
Largest provider of Marketplace (ACA) plans via its Ambetter brand, focusing on affordable coverage options.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: Primarily HMO, EPO
- ✓Coverage Area: Wide availability on state Health Insurance Marketplaces
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, My Health Pays rewards program
- ✓Digital Tools: Member portal and app available
Scorecard (Overall: 6.8 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Leading provider on ACA Marketplaces.
- + Often offers competitive premiums.
- + Rewards program for healthy activities.
Cons
- - Networks can be narrow (HMO/EPO focused).
- - Customer service ratings are often below average.
- - Primarily focused on subsidized Marketplace population.
Verdict
"A key option for those seeking affordable coverage through the ACA Marketplace, but be sure to check the provider network carefully."
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Individual & Family Plans
By Humana
Major player, particularly strong in Medicare Advantage, but also offers individual and group plans in select markets.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: HMO, PPO, POS (Marketplace presence varies)
- ✓Coverage Area: National (Strongest in Medicare Advantage)
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, Go365 wellness and rewards program
- ✓Digital Tools: MyHumana website and mobile app
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Strong customer service reputation, especially in Medicare.
- + Good wellness program (Go365).
- + User-friendly digital platform.
Cons
- - Limited availability for individual/family plans outside Medicare.
- - Network focus may be more geared towards seniors.
Verdict
"A great option if available in your area for individual plans, known for good service and wellness focus, though primarily recognized for Medicare Advantage."
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PPO & HMO Plans
By Cigna
Global health service company with a strong focus on employer-sponsored plans, also offering individual plans with robust wellness resources.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: PPO, HMO, EPO, Open Access Plus
- ✓Coverage Area: National and International
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, via MDLive and other partners
- ✓Wellness Programs: Comprehensive programs, often incentivized
- ✓Digital Tools: User-friendly myCigna portal and app
Scorecard (Overall: 7.7 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Strong focus on wellness and preventive care.
- + Good digital tools and resources.
- + Significant presence in employer market, global options.
Cons
- - Individual plan availability varies by state.
- - Network depth might not match top competitors everywhere.
Verdict
"A strong contender, particularly noted for its wellness programs and digital experience, with good options for both individuals and employers."
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PPO & HMO Plans
By Aetna (a CVS Health Company)
Large national insurer offering a variety of plan types with integration benefits through CVS Health services.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: PPO, HMO, EPO, POS, HSA compatible
- ✓Coverage Area: National
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, including MinuteClinic Virtual Care
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, often integrated with CVS resources
- ✓Digital Tools: Good website and mobile app
Scorecard (Overall: 7.7 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Strong national presence.
- + Integration with CVS Health MinuteClinics and pharmacies.
- + Good range of plan options.
Cons
- - Customer service ratings can be average.
- - Network size may be slightly smaller than UHC in some areas.
Verdict
"A solid national provider, especially appealing for those who utilize CVS Health services frequently."
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Various Plans (PPO, HMO, etc.)
By Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA)
A federation of independent, locally operated companies offering coverage across the country, often with strong regional networks.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: PPO, HMO, EPO, POS (varies by region/plan)
- ✓Coverage Area: National (through BlueCard program), but plans are regional
- ✓Telehealth Access: Varies by regional company
- ✓Wellness Programs: Varies by regional company
- ✓Digital Tools: Varies significantly by regional company
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Strong brand recognition and trust.
- + Extensive provider networks, especially regional PPOs.
- + BlueCard program allows access nationwide.
Cons
- - Experiences can vary significantly between regional companies.
- - Digital tools and customer service consistency differ.
Verdict
"A reliable choice with broad access, particularly strong regionally. Quality and features depend heavily on the specific state/local BCBS company."
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Integrated Care Plans
By Kaiser Permanente
Unique integrated model where insurance and healthcare delivery are combined, primarily operating as an HMO with strong preventive care focus.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: Primarily HMO
- ✓Coverage Area: Regional (CA, CO, GA, HI, MD, OR, VA, WA, DC)
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, integrated within their system
- ✓Wellness Programs: Extensive programs focused on prevention
- ✓Digital Tools: Highly rated member portal and app (KP.org)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.5 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Seamless coordination between insurance and care.
- + High customer satisfaction ratings.
- + Strong emphasis on preventive health.
- + Excellent digital integration.
Cons
- - Limited geographic availability.
- - Restricted provider choice (must use Kaiser facilities/doctors).
Verdict
"Excellent option for those living in its service areas who value coordinated care and strong digital tools within an HMO structure."
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PPO & HMO Plans
By UnitedHealthcare
Offers a vast network and diverse plan options including PPOs, HMOs, and HSAs, catering to individuals, families, and employers nationwide.
Key Features
- ✓Network Type: PPO, HMO, EPO, POS, HSA compatible
- ✓Coverage Area: National
- ✓Telehealth Access: Yes, extensive virtual visit options
- ✓Wellness Programs: Yes, including fitness reimbursements and health coaching
- ✓Digital Tools: Comprehensive website and mobile app
Scorecard (Overall: 8.7 / 10.0)
Pros
- + Largest national network coverage.
- + Wide range of plan types available.
- + Strong digital tools for members.
Cons
- - Customer service experiences can vary.
- - Can be more expensive than some regional competitors.
Verdict
"A top choice for those prioritizing network size and plan flexibility across the US, backed by robust digital resources."
"The network is huge, I can almost always find an in-network doctor, even when traveling."
- TravelerTed (2024-09-15)
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Final Thoughts
The private health insurance market offers diverse options, from large national carriers like UnitedHealthcare and Aetna with vast networks, to integrated systems like Kaiser Permanente focused on coordinated care, and regional leaders like HCSC or Harvard Pilgrim. Technology-driven insurers like Oscar provide modern user experiences, while providers like Centene (Ambetter) focus on Marketplace affordability. Choosing the best provider depends heavily on individual needs regarding network access, geographic location, plan type preference (HMO vs. PPO), budget, and desired digital features.
Notable Mentions:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) Various Plans: Strong brand trust and broad national access via regional companies.
- Centene Corporation Marketplace Plans (Ambetter): Leading provider for affordable ACA Marketplace coverage.
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Individual & Family Plans: Top-rated regional option for quality and service in New England.
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