The United States has no single nationwide system of health insurance. You are responsible for purchasing health insurance. Massachusetts law requires health insurance If you are a J-1 Exchange Visitor, federal regulations require you to have insurance that meets certain requirements. You can learn mor about that here.
Health care in the U.S. is provided by many different individuals and groups, including primary care doctors and specialist (MDs and DOs), physician assistants (PAs), midwives (CNM), nurses with special training (APRNs), registered nurses (RNs), and others.
You can get wellness checkups and treatment for illness or injury at doctors’ offices, community health clinics, “walk-in” clinics or urgent care centers where no appointment is required, and hospital emergency departments. Some doctors have their own office (“solo” or “private” practice), while others work together in a group practice.
You may choose where you would like to go for your health care, but your insurance may pay more of the cost if you seek care from certain providers. Be sure to carefully read the information provided by your insurance company regarding your coverage.
Finally, routine dental care is not covered under many health insurance plans, but Mass General Brigham employees are offered separate dental insurance to cover all or some of the cost of cleanings and other treatments. Similarly, routine vision care is not covered under many health insurance plans, but Mass General Brigham employees are offered separate vision coverage to pay for some of the cost associated with exams and vision correction.
