Common questions
Health insurance, answered clearly
General educational answers. Your plan and official program rules determine what applies to your situation.
Is HealthPlan Compass an insurance company?+
No. It is an independent educational resource. It does not sell plans, process applications or represent insurers and government programs.
What is the difference between a premium and a deductible?+
The premium keeps coverage active. The deductible is an amount you may pay for covered services before certain cost sharing begins. The exact sequence varies by plan and service.
Does an essential benefit mean the service is free?+
No. Essential benefit categories describe coverage requirements. Network and cost-sharing rules can still require a deductible, copay or coinsurance.
Can I keep my doctor with a new plan?+
Only if the doctor participates in the new plan's exact network and billing arrangement. Check the directory and call the office before enrolling.
I missed Open Enrollment. Can I still get coverage?+
Possibly. A qualifying circumstance may create a Special Enrollment Period. Medicaid and CHIP also accept applications year-round, subject to eligibility.
Does every life event create a 60-day window?+
No. Special Enrollment details vary by event. HealthCare.gov lists the qualifying circumstances and when documentation is required.
Is HealthPlan Compass affiliated with Plan Vital?+
No. The site is independent and does not represent Puerto Rico's Department of Health, Medicaid Program or any health plan.
Preguntas frecuentes en español
Para guías completas, visita nuestro centro de información en español.
¿Dónde puedo solicitar o renovar Plan Vital en Puerto Rico?+
Usa el portal oficial de solicitud y renovación o los canales del Departamento de Salud y del Programa Medicaid. Consulta los documentos actuales para tu caso.
¿Puedo inscribirme fuera del período abierto?+
Es posible si calificas para un período especial. Medicaid y CHIP aceptan solicitudes durante todo el año, sujetas a elegibilidad.
¿Un beneficio esencial es siempre gratuito?+
No. La red, el deducible, el copago y el coseguro pueden cambiar lo que pagas.