What is typically included in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP)?

A high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is characterized by low monthly premiums coupled with higher out-of-pocket costs, which include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. This structure is designed to lower premium costs for individuals while pushing them to be more cost-conscious when seeking healthcare services. Because these plans require individuals to pay a significant amount out of pocket before their insurance coverage kicks in, they are ideal for those who are generally healthy and do not anticipate frequent medical expenses.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the defining features of an HDHP. For instance, while some health plans might limit coverage or focus on catastrophic events, HDHPs do not inherently exclude coverage for outpatient services nor do they offer unlimited coverage without deductibles. Additionally, the nature of HDHPs is not exclusively concerned with catastrophic health issues; rather, they allow for a range of health services, albeit with a higher cost-sharing responsibility for the insured until certain thresholds are met.