Covered California health insurance plans-and all health plans in the individual and small-group markets-are sold in 4 levels of coverage: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. As the metal category increases in value, so does the percentage of medical expenses that a health plan will cover compared with what you are expected to pay in co-pays and deductibles. On average, Platinum-level plans cover 90 percent of health care costs, and you pay 10 percent; Gold plans cover 80 percent, while you pay 20 percent; Silver plans cover 70 percent, while you pay 30 percent; and Bronze plans cover 60 percent, while you pay 40 percent.
Plans in higher metal categories have higher monthly premiums, but when you need medical care, you will pay less. Alternatively, you can choose to pay a lower monthly premium, and when you need medical care, you will pay more. You can choose the level of coverage that best meets your health needs and budget
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In addition to these categories, Covered California offers a “minimum coverage plan,” which helps protect a person from financial disaster in the event of a serious and expensive medical emergency. Minimum coverage plans are designed to cover excessive medical bills that occur above the limit that you would be able to manage financially. Covered California offers minimum coverage to those up to age 30, or those individuals who prove they are without affordable coverage options or are experiencing financial hardship.