As a self-employed person, you aren't covered by an employer's social security plan, making it essential to choose the right health insurance for your needs. Finding the right coverage can help you cope with unexpected health expenses and receive quality care without breaking the bank. In this article, we compare the different health insurance options available to self-employed workers and guide you through choosing the most suitable plan.
1. Why take out health insurance as a self-employed person?
Unlike employees, self-employed workers do not benefit from group health insurance covered by their employer. Appropriate health insurance is therefore essential to cover medical, hospital, dental, and optical expenses not reimbursed by Social Security. Here are some key reasons to purchase health insurance:
- Protect your health and that of your loved ones : Good coverage allows you to access the care you need without worrying about costs.
- Avoid unexpected expenses : Specialist consultations, hospitalization costs, or specific medical procedures can represent a significant financial burden.
- Benefit from tax advantages : Certain health insurance contributions for the self-employed may be deductible from your taxable income under the Madelin law .
2. The different types of health insurance for the self-employed
Health insurance plans for the self-employed come in several types, each offering a different level of coverage:
a. Basic health insurance
This plan offers minimal coverage, often focused on essential expenses such as medical consultations and hospitalization costs. It is generally more economical, but provides little or no coverage for dental, optical, and alternative medicine care.
b. Intermediate health insurance
Intermediate health insurance offers a higher level of coverage than the basic plan. It includes reimbursements for specialist consultations and medical tests, and offers better coverage for dental and optical care.
c. Premium health insurance
This plan offers comprehensive coverage, including high reimbursements for all types of care, including comfort services (private rooms during hospitalization, alternative medicine, etc.). It is ideal for those who want maximum coverage, but it is also the most expensive.
3. Criteria for comparing health insurance offers
To choose the best health insurance as a self-employed person, it is essential to compare offers based on several key criteria:
a. Reimbursement level
Reimbursement levels are a key factor in choosing your health insurance. Compare reimbursement rates for different services, including:
- Medical and specialist consultations : Check the reimbursement percentages for consultations with general practitioners and specialists.
- Hospitalization : Compare the coverage of accommodation costs, private rooms, and medical procedures in the event of hospitalization.
- Dental and Vision Care : Evaluate reimbursements for dentures, orthodontics, eyeglasses, and contact lenses.
- Alternative medicine : If you use alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture), check whether they are covered and at what level.
b. Guarantees included and options
Included guarantees and additional options offered by insurers can make the difference:
- Prevention package : Some insurance policies include a package for preventive measures not covered by Social Security (vaccinations, health checks).
- Assistance in case of illness or hospitalization : Check for assistance services such as medical repatriation, home support, or childcare.
- Wellness packages : Some packages include packages for sports, nutritional coaching, or smoking cessation support.
c. Rates and contributions
The cost of health insurance depends on the level of coverage, the benefits chosen, and your profile (age, health status). Compare the premiums offered by different insurers, taking into account your budget and the benefits offered.
d. Waiting periods
Waiting periods , the period during which certain benefits are not activated after subscription, vary from one contract to another. Opt for health insurance with reduced or no waiting periods, particularly for hospitalizations and expensive care.
e. Online services and support
Online services (mobile application, teleconsultation, reimbursement tracking) and customer support (responsive customer service, personalized advice) are important assets to take into account.
4. Use health insurance comparison sites
Online health insurance comparison sites are valuable tools for finding the best deal for your self-employed situation. In just a few clicks, they allow you to compare multiple quotes based on your specific needs, budget, and desired coverage. Here's how to use them effectively:
- Complete your profile : Indicate your age, your activity, your health history, and the guarantees you are looking for.
- Analyze the results : Compare the reimbursement levels, contributions, and services offered by each insurer.
- Request personalized quotes : Contact insurers to refine offers based on your specific situation.
5. Take advantage of tax benefits with the Madelin contract
Self-employed workers affiliated with a social security fund for the self-employed can benefit from tax advantages by taking out health insurance through a Madelin contract . This system allows you to deduct contributions from your taxable income, which reduces the effective cost of your supplementary health insurance. Be sure to check the eligibility of your contract and maximize the tax advantages offered.
Conclusion
Purchasing appropriate health insurance is essential for any self-employed person looking to effectively protect themselves against unexpected health expenses. By comparing the offers available on the market and taking into account your specific needs, you can choose the coverage best suited to your profile and budget.
At KT Assur&Bank, we help you find the ideal health insurance for self-employed workers by offering personalized advice and tailored support. Contact us today for a free quote and to discover our dedicated offers.