A is an optional health insurance benefit that allows employees to "buy up" from a standard employer-sponsored plan to one with more comprehensive coverage . By paying an additional premium—often through a convenient payroll deduction —you can lower your out-of-pocket costs at the time of care. How a Buy-Up Plan Works

: It is entirely optional; you choose to upgrade if you feel the base coverage is insufficient for your needs.

: While the employer may still contribute a portion of the premium, the employee pays the difference between the base plan and the upgraded plan.