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MoneyGeek Logo IconBest Health InsuranceNebraska
2023

Best Health Insurance in Nebraska

Best Overall for Health Insurance in Nebraska

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is the best health insurance provider in Nebraska, receiving a MoneyGeek rating of 59 out of 100. This insurer has affordable premiums and rarely denies claims.

MoneyGeek reviewed ten Silver HMO plans and 26 Silver EPO plans in Nebraska to determine the top health insurance provider in the state.

MoneyGeek Pick: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

Blue Cross Blue Shield

pros

Has a claims denial rate of 0%

Has the second-lowest premiums of the four evaluated insurers

cons

Has high MOOP costs

Offers a limited number of plan options

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Our pick for the best overall health insurance provider in Nebraska is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska. They offer twelve Silver plans, all of which are EPO (Exclusive Provider Organizations) plans.

EPO plans are similar to HMO (Health Maintenance Organizations) plans in that they’re inexpensive and only cover in-network providers. Unlike an HMO plan, EPO plans may not require that you obtain a referral to see a specialist.

On average, an EPO plan from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska costs $646 per month and has a high MOOP cost of $8,713. The insurer has an impressive denial rate of 0% — the lowest in our comparison group of insurers.

Plan Recommendations

MoneyGeek recommends the top-three Silver EPO plans from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska:

  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Silver $0 Mental Health Visit 6000 PSBC: $576 per month; MOOP $7,900
  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Silver $0 Mental Health Visit 6000 BP: $577 per month; MOOP $7,900
  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Silver $0 Mental Health Visit 6000 NB: $773 per month; MOOP $7,900

Best Health Insurance in Nebraska for Low Out-of-Pocket Costs

Oscar is the best health insurance provider in Nebraska for low out-of-pocket costs, receiving a MoneyGeek of 67 out of 100. In addition to a low out-of-pocket cost, the insurer has an excellent track record of approving claims.

We compared information from 19 Gold EPO plans and 10 Gold HMO plans available in Nebraska to rank insurers in this category.

MoneyGeek Pick: Oscar

Oscar Insurance Company

pros

Rarely denies claims

Has the lowest MOOP costs of the four insurers in our comparison group

cons

Has the most expensive premium cost of the insurers in our comparison group

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Oscar offers two Gold EPO plans in Nebraska and rarely denies policyholder claims. These plans have an average MOOP cost of $7,100 — the lowest among comparable plans.

Although it has the lowest out-of-pocket costs, Oscar only offers EPO plans. These are typically less expensive, but coverage is limited to in-network providers.

Overall, Oscar is a good option for those looking for a provider with low-cost plans and a high claims approval rate. However, it may not be ideal for those who want access to out-of-network providers.

Plan Recommendations

We recommend the following two Gold EPO plans from Oscar:

  • Gold Elite: $789 per month; MOOP $5,500
  • Gold Classic- Standard: $729 per month; MOOP $8,700

Best Cheap Health Insurance in Nebraska

In Nebraska, Ambetter offers the most budget-friendly health insurance, attaining a score of 74 out of 100 from MoneyGeek. The insurer has both low average MOOP and monthly premiums costs.

For this category, we weighted affordability more in our overall score. However, it’s important to note that plans with less expensive premiums usually have higher out-of-pocket costs. This might be a beneficial trade-off if you infrequently use health care services.

Our recommendations were based on an analysis of 26 Silver EPO plans and ten Silver HMO plans.

MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest health insurance in Nebraska for those who just want the cheapest rates.

MoneyGeek Pick: Ambetter

Ambetter

pros

Cheapest MOOP costs of the insurers in our comparison group

Offers the most affordable premiums

cons

High claims denial rate compared to its competitors

Offers few plan types

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Of the four health insurers that we evaluated in Nebraska, the cheapest option is Ambetter. On average, the insurer’s plans cost $583 per month and have a MOOP cost of $7,590.

Ambetter provides customers with a variety of Silver HMO plans, which could be an attractive option for those seeking lower monthly premiums and in-network coverage.

While you may receive coverage at a low cost, there is a greater chance that your claim will be denied; on average, Ambetter denies 38% of claims — the highest claims denial rate in our comparison group.

Plan Recommendations

Consider the following two Silver HMO plans from Ambetter when shopping for affordable health insurance in Nebraska:

  • Clear Silver: $571 per month; MOOP $5,400
  • Ambetter Virtual Access Silver - Virtual PCP selection required: $568 per month; MOOP $7,400

Best Health Insurance for Low Income in Nebraska

In Nebraska, Ambetter offers the best health insurance for those with low incomes. It received a MoneyGeek score of 74 out of 100 for its affordable monthly premiums and low MOOP costs.

For this category, we only evaluated plans that have cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) and low monthly premiums. This included 26 Silver EPO and ten Silver HMO plans.

CSRs are discounts that lower your MOOP cost and deductible amount if your income is below 250% of the federal poverty level (FPL). In general, standard Silver plans cover 70% of health care costs; however, with CSR plans, the percentage of costs covered is greater depending on your annual income level. In Nebraska, for instance:

  • An individual making between $27,180 and $33,975 per year (201%–250% of the FPL) may be eligible for a plan that covers 73% of health costs.
  • Those earning $20,385 to $27,180 per year (151%–200% of the FPL) can expect to have 87% of costs covered.
  • Those earning less than $20,385 annually (up to 150% of the FPL) could qualify for a plan that covers 94% of health costs.

Keep in mind these brackets are subject to change based on the size of your household.

MoneyGeek Pick: Ambetter

Ambetter

pros

Has the lowest average MOOP cost in our comparison group of insurers

Offers plans with relatively low monthly premiums

cons

Has a higher-than-average claims denial rate

Offers only one plan type

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Nebraska residents with limited finances should strongly consider Ambetter for their health care coverage. Those in the 201%–250% FPL income bracket can qualify for a plan with a monthly cost of $583 and a MOOP cost of $6,370. Ambetter provides ten Silver HMO plans with CSRs.

Though individuals with low incomes can save money by choosing Ambetter, there is a higher likelihood that their claims will be denied. On average, the insurer denies 38% of claims.

Plan Recommendations

Ambetter Clever Silver is the best Silver HMO plan from Ambetter for those with low incomes. Depending on your income bracket, you can receive this plan at a lower MOOP cost without paying more per month.

  • 201%–250% of the FPL: $571 per month; MOOP $4,200
  • 151%–200% of the FPL: $571 per month; MOOP $1,500
  • Up to 150% of the FPL: $571 per month; MOOP $550

Best Health Insurance for Young Adults in Nebraska

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is the best health insurance provider for young adults living in Nebraska. The insurer received a MoneyGeek score of 70 out of 100 for its cheap monthly premiums and low claims denial rate.

For this category, we reviewed Bronze and Catastrophic plans, which usually feature low monthly premiums and high out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that Catastrophic plans are only available to those under the age of 30.

Data from the following plans was reviewed to determine the winner for this category:

  • Bronze: Ten EPO plans and three HMO plans
  • Expanded Bronze: 35 EPO plans and eight HMO plans
  • Catastrophic: Four EPO plans

MoneyGeek Pick: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

Blue Cross Blue Shield

pros

Better-than-average record in claims acceptance

Has the cheapest monthly premium for young adults

cons

Has a higher MOOP cost than other insurers

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska offers health insurance plans for young adults at an average cost of $355 per month and a MOOP cost of $8,808. The company has a perfect record of approving claims, so you can rest assured knowing that your claims won’t be denied.

Metal tiers have different coverage amounts. Catastrophic, Bronze and Expanded Bronze plans are often the top choices for younger individuals in good health who don't require a lot of coverage. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska offers six Bronze EPO plans and 12 Expanded Bronze EPO plans.

Plan Recommendations

Young adults in Nebraska should consider the following plans from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska:

  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Bronze HSA 6000 PSBC: $342 per month for 18-year-olds and $384 per month for 26-year-olds; MOOP $7,450
  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Bronze HSA 6000 BP: $342 per month for 18-year-olds and $384 per month for 26-year-olds; MOOP $7,450
  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Bronze HSA 6000 NB: $459 per month for 18-year-olds and $515 per month for 26-year-olds; MOOP $7,450

Best Health Insurance by Plan Type in Nebraska

In Nebraska, ​​health insurance providers offer different plans. The following are the best providers for different plan types in the state:

  • Best HMO Plan: Ambetter (MoneyGeek score of 100 out of 100)
  • Best EPO Plan: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (MoneyGeek score of 100 out of 100)

The plans mentioned above are Silver plans. In Nebraska, Silver plans offer a good balance between premium costs and out-of-pocket expenses for the majority of people.

You can choose form 26 Silver EPO plans and ten Silver HMO plans in Nebraska.

MoneyGeek Pick for HMO: Ambetter

Ambetter
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Ambetter provides ten Silver HMO plans at an average cost of $583 per month and a maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) of $7,590. It has a claims denial rate of 38%.

Though you’ll pay less per month with an HMO plan, you’ll be required to use in-network providers and obtain a referral for specialist visits.

Plan Recommendations

We recommend the following two Silver HMO plans from Ambetter:

  • Clear Silver: $571 per month; MOOP $5,400
  • Clear Silver + Vision + Adult Dental: $594 per month; MOOP $5,400

MoneyGeek Pick for EPO: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

Blue Cross Blue Shield
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska offers twelve Silver EPO plans for Nebraskans at an average cost of $646 per month and a MOOP cost of $8,713.

In addition to its low monthly premiums and MOOP costs, the insurer has a claims denial rate of 0%. This means that your claims will likely be approved.

With an EPO plan, you will only receive coverage for in-network providers, unless it’s a medical emergency. However, you may not need a referral to see a specialist.

Plan Recommendations

  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Silver $0 Mental Health Visit 6000 PSBC: $576 per month; MOOP $7,900
  • Nebraska HeartlandBlue Silver $0 Mental Health Visit 6000 BP: $577 per month; MOOP $7,900

Best Short-Term Health Insurance in Nebraska

National General Accident & Health offers the best short-term health insurance in Nebraska, receiving a MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100. Short-term health insurance plans often have annual or lifetime coverage limits and may not cover pre-existing conditions. They also typically have higher premiums and less coverage than plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Because of this, they aren’t recommended as a long-term health insurance alternative.

mglogo
MoneyGeek Top Pick: National General Accident & Health
National General Accident & Health

National General Accident & Health is the leader in MoneyGeek's evaluation of the best short-term health insurance in Nebraska, with a near-perfect score of 95 out of 100. The insurer has over 75 years of accident and health insurance expertise. While its policy term lengths are flexible, ranging from 3 to 36 months, some of its plans may include waiting periods and application fees.

How to Find the Best Health Insurance for You in Nebraska

When shopping for health insurance, remember that the best health insurance plan for you in Nebraska will depend on your individual health care needs and budget. Evaluate how much you’re willing to pay each month versus out of pocket for care.

  • doctor icon

    Understand when a health insurance plan will cover you

    In Nebraska, you can choose from 94 EPO plans and 31 HMO plans. Generally, HMO plans are the less expensive option, but they require you to stay within the provider’s network, unless there is a medical emergency. A referral is usually required to see a specialist. EPOs are similar to HMOs, but you may not need a referral to visit a specialist.

  • money2 icon

    Weigh the cost of premiums vs. the cost of care

    When trying to decide on the best health insurance in Nebraska, it's important to take into account both monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Usually, insurance plans with lower monthly payments have higher out-of-pocket costs. For example, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska has an average monthly cost of $646, but its MOOP cost is $8,713. This means you may need to pay more for medical services and prescriptions, but you'll save on your monthly premium.

Consider Nebraska Medicare or Medicaid if You’re Eligible

Individuals in Nebraska who are aged 65 or older, as well as those with certain medical conditions, are eligible for Medicare. This is a federally-funded program that subsidizes the cost of health insurance for eligible individuals. Medicare is divided into three parts:

  • Part A (Hospital Insurance): At no cost to policyholders, this covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice care and eligible home health care.
  • Part B (Medical Insurance): Requires a monthly fee and covers medical costs for doctor visits, services, supplies and preventive care.
  • Part D (Prescription drug coverage): Helps cover prescription drugs, including vaccines.

MoneyGeek’s guide can also help you find the best Medicare Advantage and best Medicare Supplement plans in Nebraska.

Medicaid is another government assistance program designed to offset the costs of health insurance for eligible individuals. To qualify for Medicaid in Nebraska, your income must be below 138% of the FPL. This makes it the most affordable health insurance option for those in a Medicaid extension state, like Nebraska.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Insurance in Nebraska

MoneyGeek provided answers to frequently asked questions about health insurance plans in Nebraska, including cost and availability, to help you find an affordable provider.

About Brenna Kelly, Licensed Health Insurance Agent


Brenna Kelly, Licensed Health Insurance Agent headshot

Brenna Kelly is a licensed health insurance agent and health insurance content manager at MoneyGeek. Licensed in Florida, Brenna is qualified to advise on medical insurance, disability, long-term care, critical illness, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans. She combines her experience in content production with expert insight into state, regional and local health insurance markets and policies. Brenna has also earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Applied Sociology from the University of Central Florida.