Health insurance is a type of coverage that pays for medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured, providing financial protection against high medical costs. It ensures that individuals can receive necessary medical care without facing severe financial hardship. Health insurance policies can vary widely in coverage, costs, and benefits, and are typically offered by employers, purchased individually, or provided through government programs like Medicare and Medicaid in the United States. These policies often cover services such as routine doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency services, prescription drugs, and preventive care.

Premiums, deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance are common cost-sharing mechanisms within health insurance plans. Premiums are the regular payments made to maintain coverage, deductibles are the amounts paid out of pocket before insurance begins covering costs, co-payments are fixed fees for specific services, and coinsurance is a percentage of costs shared between the insurer and the insured. Access to health insurance is crucial for maintaining public health, as it facilitates early diagnosis and treatment, helps manage chronic conditions, and provides financial stability by preventing medical debt. However, the complexity and cost of health insurance can pose significant challenges, sparking ongoing debates about ensuring comprehensive and affordable coverage for all.