What is health insurance exactly? It’s talked about a lot — but how does it really work and why do we need it? Here’s a simple way to look at it: Health insurance is a plan, or policy, that covers a percentage of doctors’ visits and hospital bills. It exists to help offset the costs of medical events, whether they’re planned or happen unexpectedly. Health insurance may also protect us when we’re feeling good — and may help keep us feeling that way — through wellness programs and preventive care.

Even if you’re the picture of good health right now, you never know when you’re going to need health insurance. A car accident, an injury, a cancer diagnosis — those don’t come with warnings. Not having health insurance is a risk, not only for the preservation of your health, but also your financial security.