The Shandro Group, Inc.

06/16/2025

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many people still hesitate to seek care—especially when they are not sure where to start. One common question we hear is whether health insurance covers psychiatric care, and what exactly psychiatry involves.
Let us break it down.

What is Psychiatry?
Psychiatry is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors, which means they can prescribe medication and offer a wide range of treatments. This sets them apart from psychologists or counselors, who typically focus on therapy and do not prescribe medication.
Psychiatrists often combine therapy with medication management and lifestyle recommendations. This makes psychiatry a comprehensive approach to mental health care.

What Conditions Does Psychiatry Address?
Psychiatric care can help with conditions like anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Psychiatrists work with patients to develop a treatment plan that targets both the symptoms and the underlying causes of these issues.
If you have tried other methods—such as self-care, lifestyle changes, or talk therapy—and are still struggling, seeing a psychiatrist may be the right next step.

Does Health Insurance Cover Psychiatric Care?
Yes, in many cases it does. Thanks to mental health parity laws, most insurance plans that cover medical care are also required to cover mental health and substance use treatment. However, coverage varies depending on the insurance company, provider network, and specific treatment plan.
Some plans allow you to see a psychiatrist without a referral. Others may require a referral from your primary care provider. It is important to check your specific plan to understand what is covered, what your out-of-pocket costs might be, and whether you need pre-approval.

Why This Matters
At The Shandro Group, we believe mental health deserves attention, support, and access to care. If you or someone you care about is facing ongoing emotional challenges, psychiatric care might be part of the solution—and your health plan may help cover the cost.

If you are unsure what your current policy includes when it comes to mental health services, we are here to help you review your options and understand your benefits.

06/09/2025

Navigating the health insurance landscape in Boise and The Treasure Valley can be complex, but understanding the available options and processes can make it more manageable. At The Shandro Group, we are committed to assisting Boise residents in finding health coverage that aligns with their needs and budget.​

Understanding the Idaho’s Health Insurance Exchange
Your Health Idaho is the state's official marketplace for health insurance plans. It allows individuals and families to compare and purchase Affordable Care Act (ACA)-compliant plans, apply for financial assistance, and access essential health benefits.​

Enrollment Periods
Open Enrollment: Typically runs annually from November 1 to mid-January. During this period, you can enroll in a new plan, renew, or make changes to your existing coverage.​

Special Enrollment: If you experience qualifying life events such as marriage, childbirth, or loss of other health coverage, you may be eligible to enroll outside the standard period.

Medicaid and CHIP: Eligible individuals can apply for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program at any time throughout the year.​

Plan Options
Your Health Idaho offers a variety of plans categorized into metal tiers:​
Bronze: Lower monthly premiums with higher out-of-pocket costs; suitable for those who want to safeguard against worst-case scenarios.​

Silver: Moderate premiums and out-of-pocket expenses; may be eligible for additional cost-sharing reductions.​

Gold: Higher premiums with lower costs when you receive care; ideal for those who expect frequent medical visits.​

Platinum: Highest premiums but lowest out-of-pocket costs; best for individuals requiring extensive medical care.​

How The Shandro Group Can Assist
Selecting the right health insurance plan involves evaluating your healthcare needs, financial situation, and understanding the nuances of each option. As a Your Health Idaho-certified agent, The Shandro Group offers personalized guidance to help you:​
Assess Eligibility: Determine if you qualify for financial assistance programs to reduce premiums and out-of-pocket costs.​

Compare Plans: Analyze different insurance plans to find the best fit for your healthcare needs and budget.​

Navigate Enrollment: Assist with the application and enrollment process to ensure a smooth experience.​

Understanding your health insurance options is crucial for securing the coverage you need. The Shandro Group is here to provide expert advice and support as you navigate the Boise Health Insurance Exchange.

06/02/2025

Health insurance is one of the most important financial decisions you make each year. But for many Idaho residents, navigating the options can feel overwhelming. Between changing regulations, eligibility requirements, and plan details, it is easy to miss out on coverage that could be a better fit for your needs and your budget.
That is where working with a certified agent can make all the difference.

What Is Your Health Idaho?
Your Health Idaho is the official health insurance marketplace for the state of Idaho. It is where eligible residents can shop for and enroll in health plans that meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act. Through this marketplace, many people also qualify for financial help, including tax credits and cost-sharing reductions that make coverage more affordable.

Why Work with a Certified Agent Like The Shandro Group?
When you work with a certified agent, you gain more than access to plans. You gain a partner who understands the system, can help you identify what you qualify for, and walks with you through the entire enrollment process. Here is what you can expect when working with our team:
Personalized guidance: We look at your household, health needs, and financial situation to recommend the most suitable plans.

Help with financial assistance: Many Idahoans do not realize they are eligible for lower premiums or out-of-pocket costs. We help you apply for the financial help you deserve.

Stress-free enrollment: We handle the technical side so you can focus on understanding your options and making the best decision for your health.

No Cost: There is no cost for working with a certified agent! Fees for help from certified agents are built into the cost of the plans, whether or not you choose to work with an agent.

What Kinds of Plans Are Available?
There is a wide range of plans available through Your Health Idaho. Whether you are looking for basic coverage, more comprehensive protection, or something in between, we help you evaluate what makes sense for you.
For some, high-deductible plans paired with a health savings account are the right fit. Others may benefit from more traditional plans that cover a broader range of services up front. We also help determine whether Medicaid or other programs may be a better match based on your income.

The Shandro Group Is Here to Help
As a locally based agency in Boise, we understand the needs of Idaho families, individuals, and small business owners. We are here to remove the confusion and help you feel confident in your coverage.
If you are unsure where to start with your health insurance or you want to find out whether you qualify for lower-cost options, we are ready to guide you.

Navigating the complex world of health insurance can be challenging, especially when trying to find affordable coverage that meets your needs. A Your Health Idaho agent plays a critical role in simplifying the process by providing expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and access to financia...

05/26/2025

When it comes to health insurance, working with someone who knows your local market matters. Boise residents face unique choices when it comes to providers, networks, and plan types. A broker who understands the Idaho landscape can help you make the best decision for your specific needs.

At The Shandro Group, we live and work in the Boise area. We are not a call center or an out-of-state website. We are your neighbors, and we know which plans actually deliver value in our community.

Whether you are an individual comparing marketplace options or a business owner reviewing group plans, we take the time to listen, explain, and guide. Our role is not to sell you a plan. It is to help you understand your options and choose with confidence.

Choosing the right health coverage is too important to leave to guesswork. If you are in Boise and need help navigating your options, we are ready to meet you where you are.

05/19/2025

Health insurance is one of the most important decisions you make for yourself or your team. But in Idaho, many people feel stuck between high costs and limited options. The truth is, with the right guidance, you can find a plan that offers both affordability and strong coverage.
At The Shandro Group, we specialize in helping Idaho residents and employers navigate the health insurance marketplace. We look at every angle, from monthly premiums and provider access to deductibles and preventive care.
We do not believe in one-size-fits-all. Instead, we take the time to learn your situation, compare the top plans available in Idaho, and help you enroll with confidence.
Healthcare should not be confusing or out of reach. If you are ready to find a plan that actually works for you, we are ready to help.

05/12/2025

You might already have access to mental health resources through your insurance, but never know it. According to recent research, most employees are not aware of what their plans actually offer, and many feel unsure about how to use their benefits.

The Shandro Group is here to change that. We help individuals and employers review their current health plans and identify what mental health support is already in place. We also show you how to use it, when to use it, and what to do if it is missing.

Mental health care starts with awareness. If you are not sure whether your policy includes coverage for counseling, therapy, or support programs, we can walk through it with you. What you do not know can hurt your peace of mind. Let us help you get clear.

05/05/2025

Finding affordable health insurance that meets your needs without breaking the bank can be challenging. With so many options available, understanding what works best for you and your budget is essential.

Our latest guide breaks down how to navigate health insurance in Boise, helping you compare plans, understand coverage options, and make informed decisions for yourself and your family. Don’t settle for coverage that doesn’t fit—find the best plan at the right price.

Read more here: https://shandrogroup.com/affordable-health-insurance-in-boise-your-guide-to-finding-the-best-coverage-for-your-budget/

Navigating the world of health insurance in Boise can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to find a plan that provides solid coverage without breaking the bank. With the right knowledge, however, you can identify a plan that fits your budget while ensuring you and your family receive the care....

04/28/2025

Understanding the Difference Between Stress and Anxiety and Why It Matters for Your Health

Stress and anxiety are often used as if they mean the same thing, but they are not. Knowing the difference between them is important for your mental and physical well-being, and it can help you take action when needed.

What is stress?
Stress is your body’s reaction to a specific external challenge. That might be a tough project at work, a deadline, or a conflict with someone close to you. Once the situation is resolved, the stress usually fades. But if left unmanaged, ongoing stress can affect your sleep, raise your blood pressure, and weaken your immune system.

What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a deeper feeling of fear or worry that may not have a clear cause. It can show up as restlessness, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, or a constant sense of unease. Anxiety often lasts longer than stress and can stay with you even when there is no obvious reason for it. For some, anxiety becomes a condition that requires medical attention and support.

Why this matters for your health coverage
Most health insurance plans include mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and treatment options. But many people do not take advantage of these benefits simply because they are not aware of them. If stress or anxiety is affecting your quality of life, your insurance policy may provide resources that can help you feel better and function more confidently each day.

Steps that can help include:
- Writing in a journal
- Practicing calming techniques like deep breathing
- Getting consistent, restful sleep
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol
- Reaching out to people you trust
- Spending time on hobbies and enjoyable routines

If these steps are not enough and the symptoms continue, it may be time to talk to a mental health professional. Your coverage might include access to someone who can help you manage symptoms and feel more in control.

At The Shandro Group, we help you understand what your health insurance can do for you—not just in emergencies, but in your day-to-day well-being. If you have questions about what your policy covers, we are here to help.

04/21/2025

Navigating health insurance options can be overwhelming, but finding the right plan doesn’t have to be. Whether you're an individual, a family, or a business owner, understanding your options is key to securing the best coverage.

At The Shandro Group, we help Boise residents and businesses find tailored health insurance solutions that meet their unique needs. From evaluating plan options to ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Continue reading: shandrogroup.com/boise-health-insurance-plans

Choosing the right health insurance plan in Boise is a crucial decision that directly impacts your financial security and well-being. With a variety of options available, navigating the complexities of coverage, premiums, deductibles, and provider networks can be overwhelming. This guide will help y...