What does deductible on health insurance mean?

Answer 1

Within every health insurance policy there are "free" benefits, such as preventive care. In addition, most policies - not all - offer benefits such as a copay for office visits and even copays for precriptions benefits. Let's refer to these benefits a PRE-DEDUCTIBLE benefits.

Other than whatever pre-deductible benefits are included on your policy YOU are responsible for all other medical expenses until you have spent the amount equal to your deductible.

If you have a $1,500 deductible, other than your pre-deductible benefits, you would be responsible for the first $1,500 in medical expenses each calendar year. After that, the carrier will begin paying their share.