Basic health insurance under a health insurance plan is something that every American needs, and as of 2016, will require or face potential legal ramifications. Fortunately, insurance companies have become more competitive over the last several years, and many offer a wide variety of basic health insurance options to allow consumers to pick and choose the type of care that they want. From options for higher annual maximums and add-on coverages to specialized care and co-payment plans, there are choices for any individual seeking to find the best health care for their dollar. What many Americans do not realize, however, are the number of basic items that may not be covered under their health insurance plan. Before getting ill or injured, it is worth knowing what your plan will and will not cover.

One of the most common items that will not be covered under "standard" insurance policies is extras at a hospital. These can include things such as extra pillows or more food, or an upgraded single or private room. Any of these items will likely be paid for entirely out of the pocket of the consumer, and while options to exist to add these things to an insurance policy, the cost is often not worth the benefit. Another common item that is not covered by health insurance is a drug treatment or therapy for an addiction. While many Americans suffer from obesity, alcoholism and substance abuse, most health insurance policies will not cover any portion for a treatment stay or drug program aimed at getting them clean and sober. Other options do exist for those programs, but they are not covered under basic health insurance.

A health insurance plan will also not typically cover after-care treatment for a patient that is released from the hospital. While there may be a provision for a visit or two from a home care nurse or other caregiver, that will likely be the extent of the care provided, after which a client will be on their own. If greater levels of care are needed, a long-term care policy would be a possibility, as it is step up in to provide a level of ongoing care far beyond that of the a basic health care plan.

While there are a great many exemptions to most health care plans, most of the costs can be mitigated with good planning and careful insurance purchasing. By communicating with your insurance company and seeking out options that fit your needs, it is often possible to avoid most of the issues that come with the limitations of a standard health care policy. Though one-off problems will exist, careful consideration will help make the most of health insurance.