Skip to main content

Top Health Insurance Companies in the US in 2021

5 min read

By Clarissa Vanner

As much as we try to avoid them, medical emergencies can happen. That’s why it’s important to have health insurance. Health insurance will help protect you from high (and often unexpected) medical costs and help you get the medical care you need. There are many health insurance plans out there from individual health insurance to critical illness insurance and family health insurance — there really is a plan for everyone!

But with so many health insurance companies out there, how do you know which ones are worth the investment? We did the research for you to help you find the right company and plan that suits the needs of you and your family. Here are the top health insurance companies in the U.S. in 2021.

Humana

Humana is an excellent health insurance company because it offers private policies for eyeglasses, dental exams, and so much more. This insurance company also has a variety of plans for people living with chronic conditions, and those who are living in an institution.

Humana is renowned for its customer satisfaction and is fairly affordable. Members will also gain access to the MyHumana portal which makes it easy to pay your premiums online, locate a doctor near you, and even provides additional information such as drug pricing.

United Healthcare

United Healthcare (UHC) is one of the top health insurance companies in the U.S. for its access to online care. Not only will you be able to order prescriptions online, but you’ll also have access to speak with a nurse via a hotline, and you can also enjoy an array of online wellness programs.

Further, UHC members can also find doctors, file claims, and make appointments online. You can even speak to a doctor on the phone which allows you to receive medical advice without leaving your home. All of these resources are available online or through their mobile app so you can have access to them wherever you go.

UHC is one of the largest health insurance companies in the U.S. and works with more than 1.3 million physicians and care professionals as well as 6,500 hospitals and care facilities nationwide. There are many programs for individuals and employers, as well as Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. While their policies may cost a bit more, all of the extra features and benefits might just be worth it.

Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is considered one of the top healthcare insurance companies in the U.S. because they have excellent customer service, great health savings account (HSA) options, and offer a variety of health plans. The one drawback is they have limited coverage areas. That said, Kaiser Permanente offers private health insurance to residents living in Washington D.C, Virginia, Maryland, Washington State, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, California, and Hawaii.

Their network includes more than 23,00 physicians and if you live in one of their coverage areas, you’ll have access to several plan options. These include bronze, silver, gold, and platinum plans. You can also add a health savings account (HSA) to all of their plans (except for gold and platinum).

The HSA through Kaiser Permanente has many benefits too. For starters, they’re available for high-deductible plans, contributions are tax-free, and they can be used to help pay for expenses such as prescriptions, hospital visits, x-rays, emergency care services, and more.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Blue Cross Blue Shield is one of America’s best health insurance companies because of its extensive network. There are 36 independent and locally operated Blue Cross Blue Shield companies but all of them operate in all 50 states. In fact, not only do they offer private health insurance in the US, but they also provide insurance in over 170 countries. Many of these independent health insurance companies also have an excellent financial strength rating of “A”.

Furthermore, more than 90-percent of doctors and hospitals across the U.S. contract with this company which is more than any other insurer. You’ll also enjoy that there are many policy options available that ensure you can get the coverage you want. Blue Cross Blue Shield offers employer insurance, and individual policies, as well as an array of Medicare plans.

Aetna

Aetna is another prominent health insurance company in the U.S. The company was acquired by CVS Health in 2018, but continues to provide excellent employer health plans to all residents in all 50 states in the U.S. Aetna’s is one of the top insurers due to its affordable health insurance. They offer plenty of options from preventive care and office visits to hospitalization, immunization, as well as many other essential health care services.

Members can also access health savings account (HSA) plans for high-deductible plans. Furthermore, this insurer also has a large network that ensures members can find Aetna-approved providers anywhere in the U.S. In addition to all these benefits, members will also have access to a variety of wellness programs from gym memberships to weight-loss programs, health coaching, and more.

Cigna

Cigna is a renowned global health insurance provider with an extensive network. They have a global network of 1.5 million healthcare professionals and access to doctors in over 30 countries. Cigna offers private health insurance in 10 U.S. states including Virginia, Utah, Tennessee, North Carolina, Kansas, Illinois, Missouri, Florida, Arizona, and Colorado. They also have an exceptional financial strength rating of “A”.

Further, Cigna is one of the top health insurance companies in the U.S. because they offer out-of-network care without a referral. They also have exceptional telehealth services. Members will have access to a home delivery pharmacy, rewards program, health information helpline, and the Cigna telehealth connection program.

Molina Healthcare

Molina Healthcare insures over 3.6 million residents in the U.S. They provide health insurance to residents in Washington, Wisconsin, Utah, Ohio, New York, South Carolina, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Mississippi, and Texas. Keep in mind, plan and coverage options, as well as benefits, may vary by state.

Many of its plans come with low co-pays. They also cover essential medical services such as hospital care, vaccinations, lab tests and x-rays, emergency services, prenatal, vision, prescription drugs, and more. In addition to these, the company also has a great wellness program. Some of the perks include preventive health care services such as adult and child immunization, pediatric preventative health care, prenatal, and postnatal care.

Health Care Sevice Corporation

Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) is the largest customer-owned health insurance company in the U.S. They insure more than 16 million members and provide insurance to residents in Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. There are an array of health insurance programs available through its affiliates and secondary companies.

Some of the highlights this company has to offer include an online health assessment tool, weight-loss programs, fitness programs, and smoking cessation support. They also offer maternity programs and a 24/7 nurse hotline. Members can also access their health plan information and online tools through their website. You can also opt for mobile alerts through text or email that sends you prescription drug reminders, claims information, as well as diet and fitness tips.

Junior Managing Editor

Clarissa is the Junior Managing Editor of ActiveBeat. She aspires to live a healthy lifestyle by staying active and eating foods that nourish her body, but she isn't afraid to indulge in a little chocolate here and there! Clarissa loves cooking, being outdoors, and spending time with her dog. In her free time, you'll find her relaxing in her hammock or curled up on the couch reading a book.

Your Health

Explore

How To Manage Holiday Expectations (Without Guilt)
By Clarissa Vanner Your Health

How To Manage Holiday Expectations (Without Guilt)

The holiday season is meant to be joyful, but it often comes with the weight of expectations that can lead to stress and guilt. Balancing traditions, family demands, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to meet everyone’s needs. The key to a happier holiday lies in setting boundaries, managing expectations, and focusing […]

Read More about How To Manage Holiday Expectations (Without Guilt)

3 min read

Healthy Habits That Boost Productivity
By Clarissa Vanner Your Health

Healthy Habits That Boost Productivity

Boosting productivity goes beyond just working harder—it’s about working smarter and adopting daily habits that support your mind and body. Incorporating healthy habits into your routine can help improve focus, energy levels, and efficiency throughout the day. From nourishing nutrition to strategic breaks and exercise, small changes can lead to significant results. Learn how to […]

Read More about Healthy Habits That Boost Productivity

3 min read

2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Changes You Should Know
By Sponsored Your Health

2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Changes You Should Know

The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment season brings some of the most significant changes in recent history, driven by the Inflation Reduction Act. With open enrollment running from October 15 to December 7, now is the time to review your current plan and explore new options for the coming year. A $2,000 Limit on Out-of-Pocket Prescription […]

Read More about 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Changes You Should Know

4 min read