A Young Adult’s Guide to Healthcare

Navigating healthcare options can be confusing at any age but especially for young adults who are turning 26 and must leave a parent’s insurance plan. Selecting coverage, exploring benefits and finding a doctor can generate many questions.

To help make sense of this transition, Ogechi Anyaoku, MD, internal medicine doctor with Adventist Medical Group in Fort Washington, Maryland, and Carlos Vargas, vice president of human resources and technology at Adventist HealthCare and chief human resources officer at Howard University Hospital, share important tips for young adults to consider when selecting their own health plan and doctor.

Obtain coverage through your employer or the state health exchange.

If your employer provides health coverage, the options they offer are likely your best choice. If they don’t, visit your state health exchange online to browse plans and find one that fits your needs. In Maryland, visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov.

Don’t miss out on any extra benefits provided with your health insurance.

Many plans offer mental health benefits, consultations with nutritionists, care navigation services to guide you through complex medical cases and much more. Talk with your employer’s benefits team or insurance provider about what’s available. If you know everything in your health plan, you can make informed decisions about what you need.

Make any changes to your healthcare coverage within 60 days of turning 26.

Generally, you have a 60-day window to leave your previous healthcare plan and select new coverage. However, this grace period can vary by health plan or state. Before your birthday, speak with your insurer and the human resources team that handles your current plan to determine when your coverage ends. You should also talk with your new insurance provider to determine the deadline for selecting coverage.

Do your research when selecting a healthcare provider.

Ask your family members and friends which physicians they see for care. You can also search online for doctors in your community or talk to your insurance company for recommendations within your plan. Take time to find a primary care doctor who meets your needs and with whom you feel comfortable building a relationship.

When visiting a new doctor, you should receive a general health screening.

Depending on your age and health condition you will likely need a general health screening during your initial appointment. This allows your doctor to obtain your health history and establish a baseline for your ongoing care. Most doctors will look for signs or family history of common diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol. Navigating your health journey is much easier when you start with as much information as possible.

Things not working out? Select a new provider.

If you feel that your doctor isn’t the right fit for you after initial visits, or if you want a second opinion, feel empowered to choose a new healthcare provider. Finding a provider who you can have a long-term relationship with is important for your overall health. Resources are available to help make this transition smooth and easy to understand. “No one knows your health better than you,” Dr. Anyaoku said.

Hear more about healthcare coverage and turning 26 on the Adventist HealthCare & You podcast. Visit AHCYou.com/W24Turning26.