Which of the following is NOT a benefit of having health insurance through GCI?

Having health insurance through Get Covered Illinois (GCI) offers a range of benefits, including access to preventive care services, financial protection against high medical costs, and coverage for essential health benefits.

Access to preventive care services is an essential component of health insurance plans, as it allows individuals to obtain necessary health screenings and vaccinations without out-of-pocket costs. This helps in the early detection and prevention of diseases.

Financial protection against high medical costs is another critical benefit, as insurance can help cover significant expenses associated with medical treatments, hospitalizations, and surgeries, reducing the financial burden on individuals and families during times of health crises.

Coverage for essential health benefits ensures that all individuals have access to necessary medical services, which may include services like maternity, mental health, and prescription drugs, all of which contribute to better health outcomes and comprehensive care.

In contrast, potential tax penalties arise if an individual does not maintain minimum essential coverage, but these penalties are not considered a benefit of having health insurance. Instead, they represent a potential consequence of being uninsured, highlighting why this option is not aligned with the benefits that GCI provides its policyholders.