Cheapest Health Insurance in Louisiana (2024 Plans)


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Updated: May 22, 2024

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Health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs vary with metal tiers. In Louisiana, Blue Cross Blue Shield offers the most affordable Bronze, Expanded Bronze, Silver and Gold plans.

If you are looking to balance monthly premiums with quality claims and coverage, the best health insurance in Louisiana has been thoroughly assessed by MoneyGeek.

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2024

Most Affordable Health Insurance in Louisiana

Why Trust MoneyGeek? We downloaded plan data for Louisiana directly from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

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Plan data was updated with the CMS exchange data released in October, the latest available data for the 2024 enrollment period.

83Plans Analyzed
 
8Providers Compared

Cheapest Health Insurance in Louisiana by Metal Tier

The most cost-effective plan in Louisiana's Silver tier is offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield and is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400, with a monthly cost of $504. The Silver plan is the most common choice due to its balance of monthly premiums and coverage. For those willing to trade lower monthly premiums for higher out-of-pocket costs, Bronze plans are available. Health insurance costs are dependent on the metal tier, where generally, higher premiums correspond to lower out-of-pocket expenses and deductibles.

Here are the most affordable health insurance plans from each metal tier:

  • Bronze: Blue POS 60/40 $6500 (Blue Cross Blue Shield) at $457 per month
  • Expanded Bronze: Blue Connect 70/50 $4550 (Blue Cross Blue Shield) at $407 per month
  • Silver: Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 (Blue Cross Blue Shield) at $504 per month
  • Gold: Blue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 (Blue Cross Blue Shield) at $579 per month

For more information on cheap health insurance, you can explore various options that suit your needs and budget.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age:
Age:40
Expanded BronzePlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550 CompanyBlue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$407Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450
BronzePlanBlue POS 60/40 $6500CompanyBlue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$457Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450
SilverPlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400 CompanyBlue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$504Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900
GoldPlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 CompanyBlue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$579Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450
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WHAT ARE METAL TIERS?

In the Louisiana health insurance marketplace, consumers have a choice of metal tiers, including Bronze, Expanded Bronze, Silver and Gold plans. Each tier offers a different balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses when care is needed.

Bronze plans typically have the lowest monthly premiums but highest out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. For example, a 40-year-old could pay about $457 a month for a Bronze plan with a maximum out-of-pocket limit of $9,450. Conversely, Gold plans charge higher monthly premiums — in this case, around $579 — but come with much lower out-of-pocket expenses, illustrated by a $1,000 copay and the same out-of-pocket limit as the Bronze option.

Silver plans provide a middle ground with moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs. They are particularly important for individuals below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, as they are eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs). CSRs lower the amount one has to pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance, making health care more affordable without escalating premiums. A Silver plan might cost roughly $504 monthly, with a maximum out-of-pocket cost that could be as low as $7,900, but CSRs can further reduce these out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals, providing a balance of premium affordability and reduced charges at the point of care.

Cheapest Silver Plans in Louisiana

The most affordable Silver plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, costing only $504 per month.

Here are the three most cost-effective Silver plans available in the state:

  • Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($504 per month)
  • Signature Blue 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($519 per month)
  • Clear Silver from Ambetter ($521 per month)

Silver plans are well-suited for individuals or families who expect moderate health care usage and desire a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Customers who qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) can significantly reduce their deductibles, copayments and co-insurance, leading to substantial savings on health care services. These CSRs make Silver plans particularly attractive for those with lower incomes who still want comprehensive coverage.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age:
Age:40
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$504Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$519Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanSignature Blue 80/60 $3400
AmbetterMonthly Cost$521Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,400PlanClear Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$527Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanStandard Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$537Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,000PlanFocused Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$540Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,400PlanClear Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$542Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,400PlanEveryday Silver
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$543Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect Copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$544Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanCommunity Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$546Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
AmbetterMonthly Cost$546Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanStandard Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$549Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$556Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,000PlanFocused Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$562Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,400PlanEveryday Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$564Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,500PlanCHRISTUS Silver
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$570Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Silver HD
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$570Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanPrecision Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$598Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanPrecision Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$598Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$624Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900PlanBlue POS 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$644Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect Copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$645Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanPrecision Blue copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$666Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanBlue POS Copay 60/40 $5900 Standardized Plan
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$679Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue POS Copay 60/40 $4300
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$691Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Silver Value
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$697Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanUHC Silver Standard
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$699Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Silver Advantage
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$700Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Silver Copay Focus $0 Indiv Med Ded
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$720Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Silver Advantage+
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$769Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,000PlanBlue Saver 90/70 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$778Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanBlue Max Copay 60/40 $5900 Standardized Plan
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$778Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Max Copay 50/50 $3300

Cheapest Gold Plans in Louisiana

The most affordable Gold tier health insurance plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 from Blue Cross Blue Shield, with a monthly cost of $579.

The three most affordable Gold plans in Louisiana are:

  • Blue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($579 per month)
  • Signature Blue Copay 80/60 $1000 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($596 per month)
  • Standard Gold from Ambetter ($610 per month)

Gold plans offer a higher level of coverage and are ideal for customers who expect to need frequent medical care. They often come with higher premiums but significantly lower out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. These plans are especially beneficial for individuals with ongoing prescriptions or who require regular doctor's visits and want predictability in health care spending.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age:
Age:40
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$579Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$596Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanSignature Blue Copay 80/60 $1000
AmbetterMonthly Cost$610Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanStandard Gold
AmbetterMonthly Cost$615Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500PlanEveryday Gold
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$624Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCommunity Blue Copay 80/60 $1000
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$626Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000
AmbetterMonthly Cost$632Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanStandard Gold + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$637Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500PlanEveryday Gold + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$644Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,600PlanComplete Gold
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$656Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanPrecision Blue Copay 80/60 $1000
AmbetterMonthly Cost$667Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,600PlanComplete Gold + Vision + Adult Dental
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$687Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$688Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanPrecision Blue Copay 80/60 $1000
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$689Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanCHRISTUS Standard Gold
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$704Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Gold
AmbetterMonthly Cost$710Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,500PlanElite Gold
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$711Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue POS Copay 80/60 $1000
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$721Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanUHC Gold Standard
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$731Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500PlanUHC Gold Copay Focus $0 Indiv Med Ded
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$732Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanBlue POS Copay 75/55 $1500 Standardized Plan
AmbetterMonthly Cost$735Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,500PlanElite Gold + Vision + Adult Dental
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$753Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500PlanUHC Gold Advantage+
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$770Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Gold Plus
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$845Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Max 90/70 $1500
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$850Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700PlanBlue Max Copay 75/55 $1500 Standardized Plan

Cheapest Bronze Plans in Louisiana

The most affordable Bronze health plan available in Louisiana is Blue POS 60/40 $6500 by Blue Cross Blue Shield, with a monthly cost of $457.

The three most affordable Bronze plans in Louisiana include:

  • Blue POS 60/40 $6500 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($457 per month)
  • Blue Max 100/100 $9450 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($492 per month)
  • Blue Max 70/50 $6700 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($508 per month)

Bronze plans are ideal for individuals who want lower monthly premiums and are comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs in the event they need care. They are good for those who do not expect to need frequent medical care or high-cost services. Bronze plans are a cost-effective solution for healthy individuals who primarily want coverage for major medical events.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Age:40
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$457Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue POS 60/40 $6500
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$492Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Max 100/100 $9450
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$508Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Max 70/50 $6700
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$514Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Bronze Essential

Cheapest Expanded Bronze Plans in Louisiana

The most affordable Expanded Bronze tier health plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect 70/50 $4550 offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield with a monthly cost of $407.

The top three most affordable Expanded Bronze plans in Louisiana by monthly cost are:

  • Blue Connect 70/50 $4550 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($407 per month)
  • Community Blue 70/50 $4550 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($439 per month)
  • Blue Connect 70/50 $4550 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($441 per month)

Expanded Bronze plans are designed for customers who want lower monthly premiums while still having coverage for a broad range of health care services. These plans tend to have higher out-of-pocket costs when health care is accessed but can be a good option for individuals who don't expect to use many medical services. They are also beneficial for those who can handle a higher financial risk in exchange for lower monthly costs.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age:
Age:40
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$407Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$439Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCommunity Blue 70/50 $4550
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$441Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$441Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Bronze Basic
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$456Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Bronze
AmbetterMonthly Cost$458Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanStandard Expanded Bronze
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$460Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanPrecision Blue 70/50 $4550
AmbetterMonthly Cost$468Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,250PlanEveryday Bronze
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$469Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanCHRISTUS Standard Expanded Bronze
AmbetterMonthly Cost$475Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanStandard Expanded Bronze + Vision + Adult Dental
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$483Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanPrecision Blue 70/50 $4550
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$483Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550
AmbetterMonthly Cost$485Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,250PlanEveryday Bronze + Vision + Adult Dental
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$504Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanBlue POS 70/50 $4550
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$520Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Bronze Value
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$522Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanUHC Bronze Standard
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$531Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanBlue POS Copay 50/50 $7500 Standardized Plan
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$539Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanUHC Bronze Copay Focus $0 Indiv Med Ded
AmbetterMonthly Cost$544Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,250PlanElite Bronze
AmbetterMonthly Cost$564Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,250PlanElite Bronze + Vision + Adult Dental
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$573Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,000PlanBlue Saver 60/40 $6100
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$580Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400PlanBlue Max Copay 50/50 $7500 Standardized Plan

Cheapest Health Insurance in Louisiana for Those With Low Income

In Louisiana, if your annual earnings are below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you're eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) on Silver health insurance plans, making health care more affordable by reducing deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.

The most affordable Silver plan for individuals earning between $14,580 and $21,870 per year is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield at $504 monthly. It has a maximum out-of-pocket cost (MOOP) of $1,900. The following are the two most affordable Silver plans:

  • Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield (monthly cost: $504, MOOP: $1,900)
  • Signature Blue 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield (monthly cost: $519, MOOP: $1,900)

Cost-sharing reductions are available exclusively through Silver plans in Louisiana. The specified income range applies to single individuals and varies with household size.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Age:40
Annual Income:
Annual Income:$14,580 to $21,870 per year
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$504Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$519Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanSignature Blue 80/60 $3400
AmbetterMonthly Cost$521Maximum Out-of-Pocket$550PlanClear Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$527Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanStandard Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$537Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,350PlanFocused Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$540Maximum Out-of-Pocket$550PlanClear Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$542Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,400PlanEveryday Silver
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$543Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,200PlanBlue Connect Copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$544Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanCommunity Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$546Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
AmbetterMonthly Cost$546Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanStandard Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$549Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver
AmbetterMonthly Cost$556Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,350PlanFocused Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
AmbetterMonthly Cost$562Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,400PlanEveryday Silver + Vision + Adult Dental
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$564Maximum Out-of-Pocket$750PlanCHRISTUS Silver
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$570Maximum Out-of-Pocket$700PlanCHRISTUS Silver HD
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$570Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanPrecision Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$598Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanPrecision Blue 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$598Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$624Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue POS 80/60 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$644Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,200PlanBlue Connect Copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$645Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,200PlanPrecision Blue copay 70/50 $2900
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$666Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue POS Copay 60/40 $5900 Standardized Plan
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$679Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,700PlanBlue POS Copay 60/40 $4300
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$691Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,300PlanUHC Silver Value
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$697Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanUHC Silver Standard
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$699Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,500PlanUHC Silver Advantage
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$700Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,500PlanUHC Silver Copay Focus $0 Indiv Med Ded
UnitedHealthcareMonthly Cost$720Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,500PlanUHC Silver Advantage+
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$769Maximum Out-of-Pocket$2,000PlanBlue Saver 90/70 $3400
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$778Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900PlanBlue Max Copay 60/40 $5900 Standardized Plan
Blue Cross Blue ShieldMonthly Cost$778Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,800PlanBlue Max Copay 50/50 $3300
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WHAT IS A COST-SHARING REDUCTION?

Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are discounts that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance on Silver health insurance plans for eligible individuals earning between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.

For example, under the Blue Cross Blue Shield's Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 plan, a 40-year-old with a high level of CSR (94% AV Level) would have a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $1,900. Conversely, with a lower CSR (73% AV Level), the same individual's maximum out-of-pocket expense would be $7,550, illustrating the potential for significant savings.

Cheapest Health Insurance in Louisiana by Plan Type

The most popular plan type in Louisiana is the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO).

The most affordable HMO plan in Louisiana is the CHRISTUS Standard Silver from Christus Health at $549.

  • HMO: CHRISTUS Standard Silver from Christus Health ($549 per month)
  • EPO: Clear Silver 40 from Ambetter ($521 per month)
  • POS: Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($504 per month)
  • PPO: Blue Saver 90/70 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($769 per month)

In Louisiana, individuals seeking variety in health plans have the option to choose from EPO, POS and PPO plans in addition to the popular HMO plans. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans offer a balance of cost and flexibility, as they do not require referrals for specialists but limit coverage to providers in the network. Point of Service (POS) plans combine elements of HMO and PPO plans by allowing out-of-network services at a higher cost with a referral. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans provide the most flexibility, allowing policyholders to visit any health care provider, often without the need for a referral.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Age:40
plan_type:
plan_type:HMO
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$549Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$564Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,500PlanCHRISTUS Silver
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$570Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450PlanCHRISTUS Silver HD
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WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLAN TYPES?

In Louisiana, the most common health insurance plan type is the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Other plan types available in Louisiana include Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), Point of Service (POS) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).

The differences between these plan types are as follows:

  • Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): HMO plans often have lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs when compared to other plan types. They require you to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and get referrals to see specialists, which can help coordinate care. However, an HMO typically limits coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract with the HMO. If you see a provider outside of the network, you may have to pay the full cost, except in an emergency.

  • Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): EPO plans offer a moderate amount of freedom to choose your health care providers within a specified network, without requiring referrals for specialists. However, coverage for services received outside of the network is usually very limited or non-existent, which means higher out-of-pocket costs if you choose to go outside the network.

  • Point of Service (POS): POS plans provide features of both HMO and PPO plans. You typically need to select a primary care physician, but you also have the flexibility to go outside of the provider network, usually at a higher cost. However, visiting out-of-network providers may require paying more out of pocket and filling out more paperwork. Referrals are often required for specialist visits.

  • Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): PPO plans offer the most freedom to see any health care provider, with or without referrals. These plans will cover some of the costs of seeing out-of-network providers. However, PPOs usually have higher monthly premiums compared to other health insurance plans. Out-of-pocket costs can also be higher when you choose to see out-of-network providers.

When choosing a health insurance plan, it's essential to consider not only the costs but also the plan's network, coverage perks and if it fits your health care needs. Always review the summary of benefits for any plan you're considering to make an informed choice.

Cheapest Health Insurance in Louisiana by County

Health insurance rates and availability of certain plans vary by county in Louisiana, influencing the options and premiums for residents seeking coverage.

Comparing the most affordable plans in the largest and smallest counties by population shows this variation in monthly rates:

  • Caddo Parish: CHRISTUS Standard Silver from Christus Health ($503 per month)
  • Cameron Parish: CHRISTUS Standard Silver from Christus Health ($567 per month)

The following table outlines all available plans in each county in Louisiana.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
County:
County:Caddo Parish
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$503Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver
Christus HealthMonthly Cost$517Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,500PlanCHRISTUS Silver

Health Insurance Costs in Louisiana by Age and Metal Tier

In Louisiana, age affects how much you pay for health insurance. For example, an 18-year-old pays $463 for a silver plan, whereas a 60-year-old pays $1,375, which is $912 more. Age makes a big difference in rates within each metal tier.

Metal tiers are categories of insurance plans that tell you how you and your plan split costs. A 40-year-old with a bronze plan pays $490, while the same person would pay $738 for a Gold plan. The Gold plan costs $248 more than the bronze plan because it covers more medical costs.

Health Insurance Costs in Louisiana by Age and Metal Tier

What to Know About Health Insurance in Louisiana

MoneyGeek broke down the health insurance options in Louisiana to give you a clear picture. We cover private insurance plans available in the marketplace, including the different metal tiers like Bronze, Silver and Gold. We also explain government programs like Medicaid and Medicare. Our goal is to help you understand your choices so you can make the best decision for your health care.

Private Health Insurance in the Louisiana Marketplace

The open enrollment period in Louisiana typically aligns with the federal health insurance marketplace timeframe, running from November 1st to December 15th each year. During this period, residents can shop for private health insurance coverage on the federal exchange (HealthCare.gov), assessing different plans and selecting one that meets their needs and budget. If you miss the December 15th deadline, you may have to wait until the next open enrollment unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to life events such as marriage, having a baby, or losing other coverage, which allows you to enroll outside the standard period.

Medicaid in Louisiana

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program in the United States that provides health care coverage to millions of Americans, including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and individuals with disabilities. In Louisiana, eligibility for Medicaid is determined based on income, household size and other factors, such as disability status. Individuals and families must meet specific income requirements that are a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify. Louisiana has also expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, allowing a broader range of low-income individuals to get coverage. Applications for Medicaid can be done through the state's Department of Health.

Medicare in Louisiana

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, but it's also available to some younger individuals with specific disabilities or conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease. In Louisiana, eligibility is aligned with these federal guidelines.

There are various parts to Medicare, each covering different aspects of health care needs:

  • Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and home health care services.
  • Part B provides coverage for doctor's visits, outpatient care, medical supplies and preventative services.
  • Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and often includes additional benefits like vision, dental and hearing. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
  • Part D adds prescription drug coverage and is available through private insurance companies.

MoneyGeek found the best Medicare Advantage Plans in Louisiana and the best Medicare Supplement plans in Louisiana.

Expert Tips on Finding the Cheapest Louisiana Health Insurance

  1. How do I take advantage of cost-sharing reductions and tax credits for health insurance in Louisiana?
  2. Outside of plans on the health insurance exchange, where else can I get health insurance in Louisiana?
Dr. Sherif A. Ebrahim
Dr. Sherif A. EbrahimProfessor at Tulane University and Chairman at SMG Capital

Louisiana Health Insurance FAQ

When looking for health insurance, you may have questions about cost and availability. MoneyGeek responded to frequently asked questions about cheap private health insurance in Louisiana to help you learn more.

What are the cheapest Silver and Gold plans in Louisiana for 2024?
What are the downsides of a cheap health insurance plan?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.


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