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Steve Turner Insurance Specialist offers you, your family and your business the complete array of Insurance Services you need to protect and provide for their Health Insurance needs!
My goals are to (1) Listen to you tell me about your insurance needs, budget, and the outcome you require, and (2) Educate you on your various options, and (3) Setup the insurance plans you have selected and get your insurance coverage established.
Not sure what what type of insurance is best for your personal, family, or business? No worries! Most of my clients aren’t sure when they first reach out to us. I’ll discuss with you all your insurance options pro’s and con’s so YOU can make the choices that fit your budget.
Tap the “+1.813.388.8373” button to call me now, or the “Book-A-Call” button to pick a time on my calendar for a chat. I look forward to answering your questions and helping you find the right insurance to fit your needs.
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Health Insurance
Health Insurance
As a Florida-based independent insurance broker with extensive experience, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of Health Insurance Plans to cover you at every stage of life. For individuals and families under age 65, we specialize in navigating the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, helping you compare plans from all major Florida carriers and maximize your eligibility for Premium Tax Credits and other subsidies. For those turning 65 or older, we are certified experts in all aspects of Medicare, including Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans, Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans, and Part D Prescription Drug Plans. Our service always begins with a no-cost, educational consultation to understand your unique needs.
When choosing an agent, it is essential to ask if they are independent and if they are certified to sell both under-65 ACA plans and Medicare plans. This ensures they can be a long-term partner who can guide you through life’s transitions. You must also inquire about their meticulous process for verifying that your specific doctors and hospitals are in a plan’s network, as this is the most critical step in avoiding unexpected medical bills. The right agent is not a salesperson; they are a trusted, local advisor dedicated to finding the best solution for your health and financial security.
Health Insurance Plans We Offer: A Florida Expert’s Guide to Coverage at Every Stage of Life
In today’s world, having quality health insurance is not a luxury; it is a fundamental component of your financial security and personal well-being. A single unexpected medical event can have devastating financial consequences. But navigating the landscape of health insurance plans, provider networks, deductibles, and government subsidies can feel like an overwhelming, full-time job.
As an independent insurance broker who has spent many years specializing in the unique Florida market, my mission is to transform this complexity into clarity. My team and I serve as lifelong insurance advisors for our clients. We help young families find their first ACA Marketplace plan, guide individuals through job transitions, and ultimately, help them navigate the critical decisions they face when they become eligible for Medicare. Because we are independent, our loyalty is to you, our client, not to any single insurance company.
The “best” health insurance plan is not a specific product; it is the one that is perfectly tailored to your unique life stage, your healthcare needs, and your family’s budget. This guide will serve as your comprehensive roadmap, breaking down the major types of health insurance we offer to Florida residents and providing you with the tools you need to choose not just the right plan, but the right expert agent to be your trusted partner.
Part 1: Health Insurance for Individuals & Families Under 65 (The ACA Marketplace)
For Floridians under the age of 65 who do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance, the primary source for coverage is the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, also known as the Health Insurance Marketplace, accessed through HealthCare.gov. Open Enrollment typically runs from November 1st to January 15th each year.1
Understanding the “Metal Tiers”
ACA plans are categorized into four “metal tiers” that help you understand how you and your plan will share costs. The key difference is the trade-off between your fixed monthly premium and your potential out-of-pocket costs when you need care.
- Bronze: Lowest monthly premium, but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Best for healthy individuals who want protection from a major medical catastrophe.
- Silver: A moderate monthly premium with more moderate deductibles. This is the only tier eligible for extra Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs), which can significantly lower your costs (see below).
- Gold: High monthly premium, but low deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. A good choice if you know you will need regular medical care.
- Platinum: Highest monthly premium with the lowest out-of-pocket costs.
Financial Assistance: The Key to Affordability
The vast majority of Floridians who enroll in an ACA plan qualify for financial assistance. There are two types:
- Premium Tax Credit (PTC): This is a subsidy that directly lowers your monthly health insurance premium. Eligibility is based on your estimated household income for the coming year.
- Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): This is an extra subsidy, available only if you enroll in a Silver plan, that lowers your deductible, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximum. This can make a Silver plan function like a Gold or even a Platinum plan, offering incredible value.
Plan Networks in Florida: HMO vs. PPO vs. EPO
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): The most common type of plan in the Florida Marketplace. You must use doctors and hospitals within the plan’s network and typically need a referral from your Primary Care Physician (PCP) to see a specialist.
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): These plans offer more flexibility, allowing you to see both in-network and out-of-network providers, though your costs will be much higher for out-of-network care.
- EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): A hybrid model where you must stay in-network like an HMO, but you generally do not need a referral to see a specialist.
Our Service for Under-65 Clients: We act as your expert guide through the entire process. We help you accurately estimate your income to maximize your subsidy, meticulously check that your preferred doctors and hospitals (like those in the BayCare or AdventHealth systems here in the Tampa Bay area) are in a plan’s network, and compare the total potential costs of different plans from all the major Florida carriers like Florida Blue, Ambetter, Oscar, and others.
Part 2: Health Insurance for Seniors & Eligible Individuals (The World of Medicare)
As you approach age 65, your health insurance world completely changes. You will transition from your under-65 plan to the federal Medicare program. This is a critical, once-in-a-lifetime transition, and making the right choices during your Initial Enrollment Period is essential. We are certified Medicare experts who can guide you through this process.
The Two Main Paths for Your Medicare Coverage:
- The Freedom Path: Original Medicare + a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan + a Part D Plan
- This path offers the ultimate in flexibility and freedom of choice. You will use your red, white, and blue Original Medicare card (Parts A and B) to see any doctor or visit any hospital in the entire United States that accepts Medicare.
- To cover the significant deductibles and the uncapped 20% coinsurance of Original Medicare, you will purchase a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan from a private insurer.
- You will also enroll in a separate, standalone Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
- The All-in-One Path: A Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan
- This is a private insurance alternative that bundles all of your benefits into a single, convenient plan.
- Most Medicare Advantage plans in Florida have a $0 monthly premium and include your Part D drug coverage automatically.
- A major draw is the inclusion of extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as comprehensive dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
- The trade-off is that you must use the plan’s local network of doctors and hospitals (typically an HMO or PPO).
Our Service for Medicare Clients: We specialize in helping new beneficiaries understand the profound differences between these two paths. We conduct a deep needs analysis to determine which path is the best fit for your health, budget, and lifestyle, and then we help you select the most competitive and comprehensive plan within that path from all the top-rated carriers in Florida.
Part 3: Other Health Coverage Options We Offer
- Short-Term Health Insurance: For individuals who are in a temporary gap of coverage (e.g., between jobs), a short-term plan can be an affordable solution.2 It is important to understand that these plans are not ACA-compliant and do not cover pre-existing conditions.
- Dental and Vision Insurance: For those on Original Medicare or for anyone who needs more robust coverage than what’s offered in an ACA plan, we offer a wide variety of standalone dental and vision insurance plans.
Part 4: The Ultimate Vetting Checklist – 10 Questions to Ask Any Health Insurance Agent
Choosing the right agent is just as important as choosing the right plan. Here are the ten essential questions you should ask.
1. “Are you an independent agent or broker, and how many insurance carriers are you appointed with for both the under-65 ACA market and the Medicare market in Florida?”
- Why it matters: This is the most important question. A captive agent can only offer you their company’s products. An independent agent works for you and can offer plans from a wide variety of companies, ensuring you have a true choice.
2. “What is your exact, step-by-step process for verifying that my specific doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals are in a plan’s network?”
- Why it matters: This is the most critical practical question. A great agent will have a meticulous, manual process for this and will never just assume a provider is in-network. This is the #1 cause of unexpected medical bills.
3. “Is there any cost for your services?”
- Why it matters: The answer must be “no.” Agents and brokers are compensated directly by the insurance companies when they help a client enroll. You should never be charged a fee for an agent’s help.
4. “How do you help clients accurately estimate their household income to determine their eligibility for ACA subsidies?”
- Why it matters: This tests their ACA expertise. Underestimating your income can lead to having to pay back subsidies, while overestimating can cause you to overpay in premiums. An expert will guide you through this crucial calculation.
5. “Can you explain the key differences between an HMO and a PPO plan in the Florida market and the pros and cons of each?”
- Why it matters: This tests their fundamental knowledge of managed care and their ability to communicate the trade-offs clearly.
6. “What ongoing support do you provide after I’m enrolled? What happens if I have a claim issue or need to find an in-network specialist?”
- Why it matters: This separates a transactional salesperson from a true relationship-focused agent who will be your advocate when you need them most.
7. “What is your proactive process for helping me review my plan each year during the Open Enrollment Period?”
- Why it matters: Health insurance plans, networks, and subsidies change every single year. A great agent will proactively contact you each fall to conduct an annual review and ensure you are still in the best plan.
8. “Are you certified to sell both ACA Marketplace plans and Medicare plans? Can you help me with the transition when I turn 65?”
- Why it matters: This tests their breadth of knowledge and their ability to be a true lifelong advisor.
9. “What is your experience with the different major carriers and hospital systems in the Tampa Bay area, like Florida Blue, BayCare, HCA, etc.?”
- Why it matters: This tests their local expertise. Health insurance is local, and a great agent will have on-the-ground knowledge of the provider landscape in your specific area.
10. “Why should I work with an agent like you instead of just using HealthCare.gov or Medicare.gov myself?”
- Why it matters: This asks them to directly state their value proposition. A great agent will explain that the government websites are powerful tools, but they cannot offer personalized advice, check your specific doctors, or serve as your personal advocate when you have a problem.
Part 5: Red Flags vs. Green Lights – Making Your Final Choice of Agent
🚩 Major Red Flags to Run From 🚩
- Represents Only One Company: They are a captive agent, not an independent broker.
- Does not meticulously check your doctor network. This is the biggest red flag.
- Rushes the income estimation process for ACA subsidies.
- Uses high-pressure sales tactics or creates a false sense of urgency.
- Is not licensed and certified in the state of Florida for the specific type of insurance you need.
✅ Bright Green Lights to Look For ✅
- Takes an educational, patient approach, focusing on teaching you your options.
- Is independent and represents a wide range of top-rated carriers.
- Performs a detailed, personalized needs analysis, including a meticulous check of your doctors and prescriptions.
- Commits to a lifelong relationship with ongoing annual reviews and dedicated support.
- Feels like a trusted, local advisor who is invested in your well-being.
Your Final Decision
Your health insurance is your shield against financial catastrophe and your key to accessing the care you need to live a healthy, vibrant life. Choosing the right plan is a critical decision that changes as your life changes. You don’t have to navigate this complex journey alone.
By partnering with a knowledgeable, independent, and dedicated local agent, you gain more than just an insurance plan; you gain a trusted advisor who can simplify the complex, provide you with the best options the market has to offer, and serve as your advocate through every stage of life. Your focus should be on your health and your family. Let us handle the insurance.
Top Five Questions Peole Ask Me Most About Health Insurance
Why do I need Health Insurance?
I think we should start here. Did you know that medical expenses are one of the leading causes of Bankruptcy in America?
One of the most important reasons you have Health Insurance is for the Max Out of Pocket or, as I like to call it, the stop loss. Let’s say, for example, your Max-Out-of-Pocket (MOOP) is $2000, and you just had a hospital stay, and the bill is $100,000.
You would only pay $2000; your health plan will pick up the rest if your provider is in-network.
That said, the goal is to keep you out of the hospital, right?
That’s why it’s essential to have an annual wellness checkup. Your primary care physician helps keep you on track, and the wellness visit doesn’t cost you a penny.
Health Insurance offers you peace of mind. Health Insurance works with doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies to lower costs.
So, just by having a health plan, you’ll usually pay less for care or prescriptions than if you didn’t have coverage, even before you meet your deductible.
How much will Health Insurance cost?
The cost depends on the plan you choose. Most Health Insurance plans must cover preventive services, like annual wellness checkups, vaccines, and screening tests, at no additional cost when you stay in-network.
Some people qualify for help from the Federal Government, which is called “tax subsidies.” These tax credits can lower your monthly payment based on your income, family size, location, and the type of plan you choose.
Are my doctors “In-network?”
This is one of the most essential factors in choosing a Health Insurance plan. Health Insurance companies work with doctors to bring your costs down.
If your doctors aren’t “in-network,” you’ll pay much higher out-of-pocket costs even if you’re in a PPO. It’s important to tell your agent who your doctors are so they can make sure they are in-network with the plans you are looking at.
What’s included in a Health Insurance plan?
The specific details of what is included in a Health Insurance plan can vary depending on the provider and the type of plan. You and your agent should look over the benefits summary for the plans you are considering.
Here are some standard features of Health Insurance plans:
Some Health Insurance plans may include Vision and dental. If they don’t, you’ll need a stand-alone vision or dental plan.
When do I need to enroll in a health plan?
Enrolling in a Health Insurance plan is during the Open Enrollment Period (November 1st – December 15th).
If you miss the Open Enrollment Period, you may still be able to enroll throughout the year if you have certain life events, such as losing current coverage, moving to a different county, getting married, or having a baby.
You may be eligible for Federal Assistance to help pay all or a portion of your Health Insurance premiums. There could be Health Insurance plans as low as $0 per month if you qualify.
HEALTH INSURANCE AGENT AND BROKER NEAR ME
Health Insurance
As your Health Insurance Agent and Broker serving you in Florida, my goal is to “help you” and ensure, without a shadow of a doubt, that you and your family are secure and protected from risk. As a licensed Health Insurance agent, I take the burden off your shoulders by custom-tailoring Health Insurance packages to fit your needs.
I can help you save on severe medical emergencies and find a health insurance plan that offers low- to no-cost doctor visits and prescription medication. I will show you plans where your doctors are in-network and a side-by-side comparison of your prescription costs with the different plans.
Health insurance is constantly changing, and I work tirelessly to stay informed about the latest developments in the market.
I am a long-standing National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals® (NABIP.ORG) member and hold the prestigious Registered Employee Benefits Consultant® designation (https://nabip.org/professional-development/rebc-designation). I can provide information on your market’s availability and any expected changes.
After you choose your Health Insurance plan, I provide ongoing support all year; you won’t have to call an (800) number any longer.
If you have any questions, issues, or concerns about your plan’s benefits, you can contact me via phone, text, or my simple-to-use email contact form using the buttons below.
Steve Turner, Your Helpful Licensed Agent and Broker
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CONTACT STEVE TURNER INSURANCE AGENT & BROKER
I’m here to take your calls and emails and answer your questions 7 Days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., excluding posted holidays.
Steve Turner is a licensed agent, broker, and a longstanding member of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals®. Steve holds the prestigious designation of Registered Employee Benefits Consultant®. NABIP® is the preeminent organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals and works diligently to ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable Healthcare, and related services.
Steve Turner is a licensed agent appointed by Florida Blue.
EMAIL ME: 24×7
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TAMPA, FL 33618
Website: steveturnerinsurancespecialist.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone and Text: +1.813.388.8373
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The United States: Facts and Top Visitor Sites
The United States of America is a vast and diverse country encompassing a wide array of cultures, landscapes, and iconic landmarks. Here are some key facts and top attractions:
Facts about the USA
The United States is a vast and diverse country, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here is a comprehensive overview of key statistics and top visitor attractions across the nation.
Key U.S. Statistics and Economic Overview
The United States is a global leader in population, economy, and innovation, attracting people from all over the world.
- Population and Demographics: As of 2025, the U.S. population is projected to be over 343 million people, making it the third most populous country in the world. The population is diverse, with a significant Hispanic and Latino population that accounts for a large portion of the recent growth. The median age is around 39 years, and a growing segment of the population is over 65, reflecting an aging nation.
- Geography: Third largest country by land area, behind Russia and Canada. It stretches across 3.8 million square miles and boasts 4 million miles of roads.
- National Parks: 63 national parks across the nation.
- Government-owned Land: 37% of the land is owned by the government (federal, state, and local).
- Diversity: The US is a diverse country, with a growing non-white population. Non-Hispanic white people currently make up the largest ethnic group, but their share of the population has decreased over time. The Hispanic population has seen the most significant growth, increasing by 23% between 2010 and 2020.
- Languages: While English is the primary language, Spanish is the most common non-English language spoken at home, followed by Chinese and Tagalog.
- Aging Population: Americans are living longer, with the 65 and older population increasing significantly.
- Economy & Key Industries: The U.S. economy is the largest in the world by nominal GDP. Its economic strength is built on several key industries:
- Financial Services: This sector is a global powerhouse, centered in cities like New York, with major hubs for banking, insurance, and investment.
- Technology and Information Technology (IT): The U.S. is a world leader in technology, with major tech hubs in Silicon Valley, Austin, and Seattle, driving innovation in software, hardware, and digital services.
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: As the largest private employment sector in the country, healthcare is a massive industry with a high demand for skilled workers and ongoing innovation.
- Manufacturing: The U.S. manufacturing sector is a backbone of the economy, producing everything from automobiles and aerospace components to medical equipment and consumer goods.
- Work from Home Trends: More Americans are working remotely compared to pre-pandemic times. In 2022, 15% of Americans worked from home, up from 6% in 2019.
Top Places for Visitors to Explore in the USA
The United States offers an incredible variety of destinations, from iconic cities to breathtaking national parks.
- New York City, New York: A global icon, New York City is famous for its vibrant culture, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore Times Square, see a Broadway show, visit the Statue of Liberty, and walk through Central Park. The city offers an endless array of dining and shopping experiences.
- The Grand Canyon, Arizona: A breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see. Visitors can take in panoramic views from the South Rim, hike into the canyon, or take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: Known as “The Entertainment Capital of the World,” Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, luxury hotels, and spectacular live shows. The Las Vegas Strip is a bustling boulevard with unique attractions and a vibrant nightlife.
- Orlando, Florida: The “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions, including Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. It is a top destination for families and anyone seeking a thrilling, magical vacation.
- Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital is a city of history and monuments. Visitors can explore the National Mall, which connects the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol. It’s also home to the Smithsonian Institution’s world-class museums.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: As the first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone National Park is a marvel of geothermal activity and wildlife. It is home to the famous Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and a wide variety of animals, including bison, bears, and wolves.
- San Francisco, California: This iconic city on the West Coast is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, its historic cable cars, and diverse neighborhoods. Visitors can explore Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and the beautiful Golden Gate Park.
- Hawaii: The state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean known for its stunning natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and rich Polynesian culture. Visitors can relax on beautiful beaches, hike through lush rainforests, and explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina/Tennessee: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. and is known for its beautiful mountains, diverse plant and animal life, and rich Appalachian culture.
- New Orleans, Louisiana: This historic city on the Mississippi River is famous for its unique blend of cultures, live music, and vibrant festivals. The French Quarter is a lively neighborhood with historic architecture, delicious Creole cuisine, and jazz clubs.
