Public vs Private Health Insurance

When exploring your health insurance options, you’ll often hear the terms public and private health insurance. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they mean and how they differ:

Public Health Insurance

Public health insurance is provided or subsidized by the government. Common examples in the U.S. include:

• Medicare – For individuals 65 and older, or those with certain disabilities

• Medicaid – For low-income individuals and families

• ACA Marketplace Plans – Also known as Obamacare, these are regulated by the government but provided by private insurance companies

Public plans are typically more affordable for those who qualify, especially when subsidies or tax credits are involved. However, networks may be more limited, and eligibility requirements apply.

Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance is offered through the networks of major carriers (Blue Cross, United, Aetna, Cigna, etc.) and can be purchased directly through a

broker, through your employer, or outside of the public marketplace.

• Offers more plan flexibility and broader provider networks

• Great for those who don’t qualify for subsidies but still want affordable, customized options

• Often includes additional perks or faster access to care

At Osborne Health Solutions, I help you navigate both public and private options to find the right coverage for your needs and budget — with no

pressure or "one-size-fits-all" solutions.