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Flu season in the U.S. is typically from October until April; however, the national peak of cases typically occurs in the first week of February.
This article provides a detailed look at two catastrophic plans: Healthfirst and Fidelis Care. Catastrophic plans are meant for young and healthy individuals who do not regularly seek medical attention. Overall, Fidelis Care seems to be a more cost-effective plan, as it has a lower monthly premium.
Both HMO plans offer very similar services and payment plans. Both plans have a deducible of $5,500, give some reimbursement for a gym membership, and charge 50% coinsurance after deducible for services such as preventative care, primary care, specialty visits, and urgent care.
However, EmblemHealth requires a referral to see a specialist and Oscar does not require a referral. EmblemHealth and Oscar cover different hospitals in New York City, so you may want to consider your proximity to each hospital when picking a plan. Overall, we recommend Oscar Health's Saver Silver plan as it enables more flexibility and has positive reviews regarding customer service and user satisfaction.
UnitedHealthcare Compass Bronze has a 38% higher monthly premium when compared to Oscar Bronze, however, when it comes to in-network hospital coverage, UnitedHealthcare has more prominent hospitals covered when compared to Oscar. UnitedHealthcare also offers gym reimbursement where Oscar does not.
The flu and COVID-19 are all respiratory tract infections that can affect your sinuses, nose, throat, windpipe, and or lungs, but the characteristic symptom of COVID-19 is loss of taste and smell.
UnitedHealthcare has a 25% higher monthly premium than Oscar Health does, not have direct messaging, and you need a referral to see a specialist. However, UnitedHealthcare has more prominent in-network NYC hospitals and includes gym member reimbursement. UnitedHealthcare would be the better option as long as you can pay a little more for the monthly premium and you don't mind needing a referral to see a specialist.
EmpireBlueCross BlueShield bronze has a higher monthly premium and deductible when compared to Oscar Health Classic Bronze. However, EmpireBlueCross also offers more in-network hospital coverage and partial gym reimbursement, making it the better option if you can afford it.
While EmblemHealth Bronze and Healthfirst Bronze are relatively similar plans, there are some important differences to be aware of. EmblemHealth's bronze plan has a 32% higher monthly premium when compared to Healthfirst. Healthfirst does not require a referral to see a specialist whereas EmblemHealth does require a referral. EmblemHealth also offers more in-network hospital coverage. If basing plans off reviews, EmblemHealth has slightly better reviews with a A+ rating on Better Business Bureau. For a less expensive plan without the need to see a specialist for a referral, we recommend Healthfirst Bronze. 
The mean cash price for lab tests without insurance is between $116 to $142. The lowest cost test is urine analysis to the most expensive Chromosome Analysis. You must also take into account the doctor visit.
Empire Blue Cross silver plan is the more expensive option that costs almost 39% more than the HealthFirst silver plan. Both plans have a similar deductible and copay amount by design. HealthFirst offers better access to specialists since you would not need a referral while with Empire Blue Cross you would need one from a primary care provider or similar.
The average student health insurance plan costs between $1500 and $2500 per year. If you already have coverage via your parents, you can apply for a waiver and opt-out of the university student health plan. Alternatives to student health insurance include ACA plans, Medicaid, and Mira.
