Health insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured individual. It can help protect individuals and their families from financial hardship due to unexpected medical expenses.

Health insurance policies typically cover a range of medical expenses, including doctor's visits, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, prescription medications, and emergency care. The specific coverage and benefits vary depending on the type of plan, the insurer, and the state in which the policy is issued.

There are two main types of health insurance plans: fee-for-service plans and managed care plans. Fee-for-service plans allow individuals to choose their own doctors and hospitals, and they pay for services as they are received. Managed care plans, on the other hand, typically require individuals to choose from a network of healthcare providers and may require prior authorization for certain treatments.

In the United States, health insurance is often provided through employers as part of employee benefits packages. However, individuals can also purchase health insurance plans on their own through the Health Insurance Marketplace or directly from insurance companies. Government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid also provide health insurance coverage to eligible individuals.