Side-by-side comparisons to help you decide
When you are weighing two or three options, the best thing I can do is put them next to each other and show you the math. Every comparison on this page uses real South Carolina numbers, real enrollment rules, and the same questions I get asked on the phone every week.
- Michelle
Start here
These two comparisons cover the decisions I talk about most often - the ones with the biggest financial impact when you get them right.
COBRA vs. ACA Marketplace
The side-by-side breakdown you need the week after a layoff. Real premiums, subsidy math, and when keeping your old plan actually makes sense.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap
The most important decision you will make at 65. Premiums, networks, prescription coverage, and the trial-right window most people never hear about.
All comparisons
Five plain-English breakdowns covering individual health insurance, Medicare, and small business benefits.
COBRA vs. ACA Marketplace
The side-by-side breakdown you need the week after a layoff. Real premiums, subsidy math, and when keeping your old plan actually makes sense.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap
The most important decision you will make at 65. Premiums, networks, prescription coverage, and the trial-right window most people never hear about.
HMO vs. PPO Plans
Referrals, networks, out-of-network costs, and the premium difference. A straight answer on which plan structure fits how you actually use doctors.
Group Plan vs. ICHRA vs. QSEHRA
Three ways to offer health benefits to your team - each with different costs, tax treatment, and compliance headaches. Find the fit for your business size and budget.
Bronze vs. Silver vs. Gold vs. Platinum
ACA metal tiers decoded. Which tier pays off when you factor in cost-sharing reductions, prescription costs, and how often you actually see a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start with the "Who this helps" line under each comparison. If you just lost your job, read COBRA vs. Marketplace. If you are turning 65, read Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap. If you are a small business owner, start with Group Plan vs. ICHRA. Still not sure? Take the 60-second Coverage Finder and it will point you to the right one.
Yes. Every comparison uses real South Carolina numbers - actual premiums from carriers operating in the state, real subsidy amounts, and enrollment rules that apply to SC residents. I write these based on the conversations I have with Lowcountry clients every week.
At least once per plan year. When carriers adjust rates, the federal government changes subsidy rules, or a new plan type becomes available in South Carolina, I update the affected comparison. Current 2026 plan year numbers are live across all five comparisons.
Some comparisons cover three options - the Group Plan vs. ICHRA vs. QSEHRA page and the ACA Metal Tiers page both put three or four options side by side. For anything more complex, the best path is to call me and I will build a custom comparison with real quotes from your zip code.
No. Every comparison is free to read, no email required, and there is no pitch attached. If you want to take the next step you can reach out to me, but the comparisons themselves are just educational content - read them, share them, ignore them, whatever you need.
Not sure which comparison applies to you?
Sometimes the question is not "which plan" but "which decision am I even making?" Take the two-minute coverage finder or call me directly - I will point you to the right place without any pressure.
Or call me directly at (843) 594-1759