Plan types overview
Health insurance plan types in 2026
Two dimensions decide what you pay and how you access care: the metal tier (cost share) and the network type. Quick overview below; for the full comparison see the dedicated guide.
The four metal tiers
Bronze covers 60 percent of typical medical costs, Silver 70, Gold 80, Platinum 90. Higher tier means higher premium, lower deductible.
ACA Metal Tier Ladder
2026 averagesBronze
$476/mo
60% AV$7,500 deduct.
Silver
$625/mo
70% AV$5,000 deduct.
Gold
$659/mo
80% AV$1,500 deduct.
Platinum
$841/mo
90% AV$500 deduct.
Premiums are KFF / CMS national averages for a 40-year-old non-smoker, before subsidies. Actuarial value is the share of typical medical costs the plan covers.
Network types at a glance
HMO
In-network only, referrals required, lower premium.
PPO
Out-of-network allowed, no referrals, higher premium.
EPO
In-network only, no referrals, mid premium.
POS
Hybrid HMO/PPO. Some out-of-network, some referrals.
HDHP
Lowest premium, highest deductible, HSA-eligible.
Want the full comparison?
See the complete plan types page with side-by-side dollar amounts, deductibles, copays, OOP maximums, and a decision framework.