For travel therapists comparing agencies' benefits: health insurance varies a lot from agency to agency. Here is what to compare, and when an option outside the agency makes more sense.
Best: Day-one coverage
Common: 30-day wait
Red flag: 60-90 day waits
Range: $50-$400+ individual
Ask: Pre-tax deductions?
Need: Assignment + tax home states
Best: National PPO networks
Best: Continues 2-4 weeks between contracts
Common: Ends when contract ends
"Can I see the Summary of Benefits and Coverage?" — The standardized document for apples-to-apples comparison. If a recruiter can't provide it, that's a red flag.
"What's the deductible and out-of-pocket max?" — A $100/month plan with a $10,000 deductible is very different from a $250/month plan with $2,000.
"Does the network cover providers in my assignment area AND tax home?" — Travel therapists need multi-state coverage.
"What happens to coverage between assignments?" — Know the gap policy before you need it.
Under 26: Parent's plan is usually simpler and better.
Spouse has good coverage: Eliminates the insurance variable entirely.
Agency plan is expensive/poor: ACA Marketplace plans may cost less, especially since your lower W-2 income qualifies for subsidies.
You change agencies frequently: A Marketplace plan provides continuous coverage regardless of employer.
When you write a review, include insurance details — it helps others compare.
Free and confidential. Tick the text box and a recruiter texts you right away. A recruiter emails you about your request.
Free and confidential. Tick the text box and a recruiter texts you right away. A recruiter emails you about your request.
Free and confidential. Tick the text box and a recruiter texts you right away. A recruiter emails you about your request.
Free and confidential. Tick the text box and a recruiter texts you right away. A recruiter emails you about your request.
Free and confidential. Tick the text box and a recruiter texts you right away. A recruiter emails you about your request.