You’ve been on the road for what seems like forever, hauling goods across state lines in your big rig.
While life as an independent truck driver has its perks like the open road and flexible hours, it also comes with challenges.
Chief among them is securing affordable health insurance. As an independent contractor, you don’t have an employer providing insurance.
And paying for a private plan out of pocket is pricey. Fortunately, as a member of the american truckers association health insurance, you have access to health insurance plans created specifically for truckers and their unique needs.
These ATA-sponsored plans provide comprehensive coverage at group rates so you can get back to the road without worrying how you’ll pay for your next doctor visit.
Health Insurance Options for American Truckers
As an American truck driver, you’ve got a couple of options for health insurance. The two main ones are Major Medical and Limited Medical coverage.
Major Medical is comprehensive health insurance that covers hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, and more. It’s ideal if you have a family or pre-existing conditions. The downside is that premiums can be pricey, often $500-$1000 per month.
Limited Medical, or “mini-med” plans, only cover basic care and have lower premiums, around $100-$300 per month.
The catch is that they have low coverage limits, usually only $20,000 per year. These plans are best if you’re young, single, and in good health.
Med sharing programs are another choice. Members share each other’s healthcare costs. Premiums are affordable, around $150-$500 per month, but they don’t guarantee payment. Still, they offer an option if other insurance is too expensive.
Owner-operators should check out plans from the National Independent Truckers Insurance Company. They specialize in health insurance for truckers with competitive rates.
Some associations like the American Truckers Association also offer health insurance options for members.
At the end of the day, any coverage is better than none. Do some research, compare plans, and see what fits your needs and budget. Your health is worth the investment, and the open road is waiting!
ATA Health Benefits Trust: Coverage Through the American Truckers Association
As an independent truck driver, finding affordable health insurance can be tough. That’s why the ATA Health Benefits Trust is such a great option.
Through your membership in the american truckers association health insurance, you gain access to health care coverage specifically designed with truckers in mind.
- A range of medical plans to choose from. Pick between several PPO and HMO options at price points to suit any budget. All provide coverage for routine care, emergencies, hospital stays, and more.
- Additional products for your total wellbeing. The Trust also offers dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. Keeping yourself in good shape is important when you’re on the road.
- Discounts and savings. As an ATA member, you’ll receive reduced rates on all plans and products. And with group buying power, the Trust is able to negotiate lower costs from providers. Savings get passed right back to you.
- Nationwide coverage. No matter which state you’re delivering to, you’ll have access to doctors and hospitals across the U.S. So you can get the care you need wherever the road takes you.
The ATA Health Benefits Trust makes it simple to safeguard your health, and easy on the wallet too. If you’re craving stability and security in an uncertain line of work, this is one benefit you’ll be glad to have in your back pocket wherever your rig rolls.
Your wellbeing is worth the investment, driver. Why not shift into a higher gear?
Independent Plans: Finding Individual or Family Coverage
Finding health insurance as an independent truck driver can be challenging, but there are options available if you look in the right places.
Private Plans
- Blue Cross Blue Shield and eHealth are two of the largest providers of private health insurance plans for individuals and families. With eHealth, you can compare plans from major insurance companies to find one that suits your needs and budget.
- Under the Affordable Care Act, you may also purchase health coverage through your state’s insurance marketplace during open enrollment periods. Marketplace plans cover essential health benefits and preventive care at affordable rates.
COBRA
If you recently left a job where you had group health insurance, you may qualify for COBRA coverage which allows you to keep your former employer’s plan for up to 18 months.
The downside is you’ll pay the full premium cost plus an administrative fee. COBRA can be expensive, but provides an easy short-term solution.
Association Plans
Professional associations like american truckers association health insurance offer specially designed health plans for their members.
Plans frequently provide comprehensive benefits at lower group rates. To qualify, you’ll need to join the association which typically charges an annual membership fee.
Finding health coverage when self-employed can seem complicated. With some research into the options, you can locate an affordable insurance plan that provides the coverage you need.
Comparing quotes across providers and checking independent review sites will help determine the best choice for your situation.
While not always easy, securing health insurance gives you peace of mind and financial protection.
American Trucking Association
Healthcare Benefits Through the ATA
As a member of the American Trucking Association (ATA), you have access to affordable health insurance plans.
The ATA has partnered with the Gulfstream Transportation Association to offer health benefits to truck drivers and their families.
- American Health Plans are designed specifically for truckers and provide comprehensive coverage at lower group rates. Plans include medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
- Prescription drug plans, disability insurance and supplemental insurance are also available.
- Preventive care like health checkups, cancer screenings and immunizations are covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs.
- You can choose from several plan levels based on your needs and budget. Family plans are available to cover your spouse and dependents.
The ATA negotiated lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs by leveraging the combined membership. As an ATA member, you’ll have access to these exclusive health plans and rates.
You deserve health benefits and financial protection, especially with the demanding lifestyle of a truck driver. The ATA and American Health Plans want you to stay healthy, safe and on the road.
Check with your company’s benefits administrator or visit the American Trucking Association Health Plans website to review the plans and rates.
You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to explore these healthcare options. The open enrollment period is coming up, so now is the time to make important benefits decisions for the next year.
Reach out with any questions you may have about the ATA health insurance plans. They’re here to help keep you covered.
COBRA: Continuing Employer Health Coverage After Leaving a Job
What is COBRA coverage?
COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985. Under COBRA, you can continue your job-based health insurance for up to 18 months after leaving your job.
COBRA applies to employers with 20 or more employees, who are required by law to offer you the option to extend your health benefits.
How does COBRA work?
If you quit your job or are terminated, your employer will notify you of your right to elect COBRA coverage. You then have 60 days to decide whether you want to continue your health plan.
If you elect COBRA, you’ll continue the same coverage you had while employed. However, you’ll be responsible for paying the entire premium—usually around $400 to $700 per month for individual coverage.
COBRA coverage typically lasts 18 months, though certain events like divorce or death of the employee can qualify you for an additional 18 months.
- You can keep your current doctors and health providers.
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions continues without interruption.
- Family members like spouses and dependents can also stay on the plan.
Is COBRA right for you?
COBRA can be expensive, so you’ll need to weigh the costs versus other health insurance options like an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan.
However, if you have health issues or need to keep your doctors, COBRA may be worth the investment during your transition between jobs. You can also cancel COBRA at any time if you find other affordable coverage.
For truck drivers between jobs, COBRA allows you to maintain continuous health coverage so you have one less thing to worry about during your job search.
While the premiums aren’t cheap, COBRA provides comprehensive benefits and the peace of mind that you and your family will stay insured.
American Trucking Company
Health Insurance Options Through ATA
As a truck driver, finding affordable health insurance can be challenging. Luckily, as a member of the American Trucking Company, you have access to group health plans specifically designed for truckers and their families.
- ELAP has offered healthcare solutions for truck drivers since 2007. Their plans include major medical, dental, vision and life insurance at group rates for ATA members.
- Through Gulfstream Transportation Association, ATA members can choose from a variety of comprehensive medical plans including HMO, PPO, and high-deductible health plans paired with health savings accounts.
- Prescription drug, dental, vision and life insurance plans are also available.
Rates and coverage options will vary depending on factors like age, location, and medical history.
However, group plans through organizations like ATA and Gulfstream are typically more affordable than individual plans.
As an ATA member, you have the opportunity to find a health insurance solution tailored to meet your needs and budget. Compare plans and rates on the ATA and Gulfstream websites to choose the best option for you and your family.
Healthcare is essential, especially for truck drivers facing health issues from long hours on the road. Take advantage of the health insurance benefits offered through your ATA membership.
Finding the right coverage will give you peace of mind so you can focus on what really matters—getting you and your cargo to the next delivery!
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
As a truck driver, health insurance may seem out of reach. However, there are options like Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) that can provide coverage for you and your family at little or no cost.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals including children, pregnant women, the disabled, elderly, and parents of dependent children.
As a truck driver, if your income qualifies, Medicaid can offer free or low-cost coverage. Medicaid offers basic health services like:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Vaccinations
- Nursing home care
- Home health services
CHIP
CHIP stands for Children’s Health Insurance Program. It provides low-cost health coverage for children up to age 19 in families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but can’t afford private health insurance.
CHIP covers:
- Checkups
- Immunizations
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Hospital care
CHIP premiums are typically $50 a month or less. Some states offer CHIP at no cost to families. Like Medicaid, CHIP covers essential health services to keep children healthy.
Whether through Medicaid, CHIP or other options, affordable health coverage is within your reach as an American truck driver.
Don’t delay – see if you and your family qualify today for these valuable programs. Your health and well-being are worth the investment.
Conclusion
So there you have it, truckers. The ATA health insurance plan isn’t perfect but it can provide you and your family with decent coverage at competitive rates.
You spend long hours on the road away from home, the least you deserve is peace of mind that a medical emergency won’t bankrupt you. Compare plans carefully and determine what level of coverage suits your needs and budget.
Your health is the most valuable asset you have, so make it a priority. The open road may call but your wellbeing comes first. Stay safe out there.