As a self-employed person, you are not covered by an employer’s social security plan, which makes choosing the right health insurance for your needs essential. Finding the right coverage can help you cope with unexpected health expenses and get quality care without breaking the bank. In this article, we compare the different health insurance plans available for self-employed people, and guide you through choosing the right coverage.
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 costs not reimbursed by Social Security. Here are some key reasons to take out health insurance:
- Protect your health and that of your loved ones : Good coverage allows you to access the necessary care 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 formula offers minimal coverage, often focused on essential expenses such as medical consultations and hospitalization costs. It is generally more economical, but does not cover or only slightly covers dental care, optical care, and alternative medicines.
b. Intermediate health insurance
Intermediate health insurance offers a higher level of coverage than the basic offer. It includes reimbursements for specialist consultations, 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 room in case of 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
The level of reimbursement is a determining criterion in the choice of your health insurance. Compare the reimbursement rates for the different services, in particular:
- Medical and specialist consultations : Check the reimbursement percentages for consultations with general practitioners and specialists.
- Hospitalization : Compare the coverage of the costs of stay, single room, and medical procedures in the event of hospitalization.
- Dental and Vision Care : Evaluate reimbursements for dentures, orthodontics, eyeglasses, and contact lenses.
- Alternative medicines : If you use alternative medicines (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 a 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 support for quitting smoking.
c. Rates and contributions
The cost of health insurance depends on the level of coverage, the guarantees chosen, and your profile (age, state of health). Compare the contributions offered by different insurers, taking into account your budget and the services offered.
d. Waiting periods
Waiting periods, the period during which certain guarantees are not activated after subscription, vary from one contract to another. Opt for health insurance with reduced or non-existent 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 situation as a self-employed worker. 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 to a social security fund for the self-employed can benefit from tax advantages by taking out health insurance via 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
Taking out suitable health insurance is essential for any self-employed person wishing to protect themselves effectively against unforeseen health expenses. By comparing the offers available on the market and taking into account your specific needs, you will be able to choose the coverage best suited to your profile and your budget.
At KT Assur&Bank, we help you find the ideal health insurance for self-employed workers by offering you personalized advice and tailor-made support. Contact us today to get a free quote and discover our dedicated offers.