Healthcare.gov isn't the only place to find coverage. These guides walk through Short-Term Medical, Fixed Benefit, DPC + HDHP combos, Health Sharing Ministries, COBRA alternatives, and travel medical. For freelancers, snowbirds, early retirees, and anyone whose situation doesn't fit a Marketplace box, the private market often beats it on price and network.
All Private Market Coverage Guides (7)
COBRA vs The Alternatives
Why COBRA usually isn't the best answer after a job loss, and the cheaper paths most people don't see.
Family · 1 page
Short-Term Medical Plans
Major medical coverage outside the Marketplace, broader networks, lower premiums, plans up to three years.
Family · 1 page
Fixed Benefit Insurance Plans
Set per-service benefit plans that pay a fixed dollar amount, when they work as standalone coverage and when they need a backstop.
Family · 1 page
Direct Primary Care + High-Deductible Plan
The 2026 IRS rule that made the DPC + HDHP combo HSA-compatible, plus how the model actually works.
Family · 1 page
Health Sharing Ministries
How faith-based cost-sharing programs work, why they aren't insurance, and when they're worth considering anyway.
Family · 1 page
Self-Employed Health Insurance
Coverage options for freelancers, gig workers, and 1099 contractors, ACA Marketplace, private market, and tax write-offs.
Business · 1 page
Travel Medical Insurance
Why most US health plans don't cover you abroad, and the travel medical coverage that fills the gap.
General · 1 page
Want personalized guidance?
Free guides give you the lay of the land. Book a Healthcare Review to apply this to your actual situation. One hour, no pressure, plain English.
Ready to explore private market options?
Short-term medical, indemnity, fixed benefit — Lulu will help you figure out which private option fits your budget and health situation.
Start with Lulu →