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Understanding health insurance terms

USPS has online resources to help employees understand health care terminology.
USPS has online resources to help employees understand health care terminology.

Do you know the difference between a deductible and a copayment?

If not, don’t feel bad. Many people are confused by health insurance terminology.

To help you navigate your way through the Postal Service’s upcoming open season benefits period, here are some common terms and brief definitions:

  • Deductible: The amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plans starts to pay
  • High-deductible health plan: A plan with a higher deductible than a traditional insurance plan, but usually with lower monthly premiums
  • Copayment: A fixed amount paid for certain covered health care services
  • Coinsurance: The percentage paid for some covered health care services
  • Flexible spending account: An account set up to pay for out-of-pocket medical or dependent care expenses
  • Preventive services: Routine health care that includes screenings, patient counseling and vaccinations, such as flu shots

The Open Season LiteBlue site has additional information to help you better understand your plan options, including an online benefits quiz.

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