Simply put, a health plan is protection against medical costs. A health plan is a contract between an insurer and an individual or group, in which the insurer agrees to provide specified coverage at an agreed-upon price (the premium). Depending on your policy, your premium may be payable either in a lump sum or in installments.
Health plans usually provide either direct payment or reimbursement for expenses associated with illnesses and injuries. The cost and range of protection provided by your health plan will depend on your plan provider and the particular policy you purchase. If your employer does not offer a group health plan, you may wish to purchase a health plan on your own.