Build Health Insurance App like Oscar [Cost + Features]

Last updated on February 16th, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, where the need for accessible health care is paramount, navigating the complex health insurance market can be overwhelming. Rising medical costs and intricate insurance plans have made it increasingly challenging for individuals to find affordable and comprehensive coverage. To address these concerns, innovative solutions have emerged, such as Oscar Health.

Oscar Health, founded in 2012, is a technology-driven health insurance company that has quickly risen to prominence. With its affordable and user-friendly insurance plans, Oscar Health has become one of the largest providers in the United States, covering over 529,000 members. Their success can be attributed to their commitment to simplifying the health insurance experience, making it easier for individuals to find the coverage they need.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies to build health insurance app like Oscar. By exploring the key features, user experience, and technology behind their platform, we will uncover valuable insights and guide you on your journey towards creating a similar healthcare solution.

Also Read: Health Insurance App Development

What is Oscar and what problems does it solve?

Oscar Health is a health insurance company that offers affordable and comprehensive coverage through their innovative mobile application. They aim to revolutionize the healthcare industry by making it simpler, more transparent, and user-friendly for consumers.

A lot of paperwork is required to apply for or renew health insurance. 

Oscar Health streamlines this process by allowing users to easily apply for coverage directly through their app. No more lengthy forms or complicated paperwork – just a few simple steps and you’re covered.

Hard to choose the right policy 

With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be overwhelming and confusing for individuals to choose the right insurance policy. Oscar Health addresses this issue by offering personalized recommendations based on the user’s specific needs, making it easier for them to find the perfect plan.

Hard to find a doctor in-network 

With traditional health insurance, finding an in-network doctor can be a hassle. Oscar Health solves this problem by providing a user-friendly search function that allows users to easily find and book appointments with doctors within their network.

Features for your insurance mobile app to succeed

Now that we understand the problems Oscar Health solves, let’s take a closer look at some key features that have contributed to their success and can be incorporated into your own healthcare mobile app.

Helping users choose health insurance plans

Similar to Oscar Health, it is crucial for your mobile app to have a user-friendly interface. This will enable users to effortlessly compare and select the most suitable health insurance plan for their needs. The app could incorporate various features, including personalized recommendations based on users’ demographic and medical history. Additionally, it can provide side-by-side comparisons of different plans, allowing users to make well-informed decisions. By offering these comprehensive functionalities, your app will empower users to navigate the complexities of health insurance with ease and confidence.

Purchasing and renewing policies 

Another crucial feature to consider when developing your healthcare mobile app is the seamless ability for users to purchase and renew policies effortlessly. With Oscar Health’s user-friendly online platform, individuals can conveniently enroll in a plan, conveniently pay premiums, and effortlessly renew their policy as and when required. This exceptional level of convenience not only saves valuable time but also encourages users to stay proactive in managing their insurance needs, ensuring peace of mind and comprehensive coverage at all times.

In-app payments and reimbursement

One of the most significant challenges individuals face with healthcare is the complex process of payments and reimbursements. To streamline this process, your mobile app can offer an in-app payment feature that allows users to pay for medical services directly from their insurance policy. Furthermore, incorporating a reimbursement feature that enables users to submit claims through the app eliminates the need for paperwork and speeds up the reimbursement process, making it hassle-free for users. By simplifying these processes, your app can provide a seamless experience for users and alleviate some of the burdens associated with healthcare management.

Searching for doctors and medical facilities

Finding the right doctor or medical facility can be a daunting task, especially for individuals who are new to an area. Integrating a search feature in your healthcare mobile app that allows users to find doctors and medical facilities within their network based on location, specialty, and other criteria can greatly benefit users. This feature not only saves time but also ensures that users have access to quality healthcare services within their insurance network.

Enabling doctor-patient communication

Communication between doctors and patients is vital for effective healthcare management. Your mobile app can facilitate this by incorporating a messaging feature that allows users to communicate directly with their healthcare providers. This feature can be used for non-emergency health inquiries, appointment scheduling, medication reminders, and more. By enabling direct communication between doctors and patients through your app, you are promoting efficient and personalized healthcare for users.

Search for drugs and medication reminders

Keeping track of medications can be challenging, especially for individuals who are managing multiple prescriptions. Your healthcare mobile app can include a feature that allows users to search for specific drugs and receive reminders for when to take them. This not only helps users stay on top of their medication schedules but also promotes better adherence to treatment plans.

Symptom checker and virtual consultations

Incorporating a symptom checker in your healthcare mobile app can be beneficial for users who are experiencing minor health issues. This feature can provide users with information on potential causes of their symptoms and whether they should seek medical attention. Additionally, you can also include an option for virtual consultations where users can speak to a doctor or nurse through video conferencing for non-emergency health concerns. This feature is especially useful for those who have limited access to healthcare providers or are unable to leave their home.

Access to documents and test results

Your healthcare mobile app can also serve as a platform for users to access their medical documents and test results securely. By integrating with electronic health records (EHR) systems, users can view their information on-the-go and easily share it with their healthcare providers when needed. This feature promotes convenience for users and reduces the need for physical copies of documents.

Reminders for preventive screenings

Regular preventive screenings are crucial for maintaining good health and catching potential health issues early on. Your healthcare mobile app can include a feature that sends reminders to users when they are due for their next screening based on their age, gender, and medical history. This helps users stay proactive about their health and promotes early detection of any underlying conditions.

Support team  feature

It’s important for users to feel supported throughout their healthcare journey. Your mobile app can include a support team feature where users can connect with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and other users who may be going through similar health experiences. This provides a sense of community and allows for the exchange of information and support.

Rules to follow when you create a health insurance app

When developing a health insurance app, it’s important to keep the following rules in mind:

• Compliance with regulations: Health insurance apps must comply with all relevant healthcare laws and regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in the United States. This ensures the protection of sensitive user data and maintains the integrity of the healthcare system.

• Data security: As healthcare apps handle sensitive personal and medical information, it’s crucial to have strong data security measures in place. This includes encryption of data, user authentication processes, and regular security updates to prevent any potential breaches.

• User privacy: Users should have control over their own data and be informed about how their information is being used within the app. It’s important to have clear privacy policies and obtain user consent before collecting any personal data.

• User-friendly design: A health insurance app should be easy to navigate and use, as it may be accessed by individuals of varying ages and technological abilities. The design should also account for accessibility needs, such as font size adjustments and voice control options.

• Clear communication: In order for users to trust the app and its services, there should be clear and transparent communication about its features, limitations, and any potential risks. This includes providing accurate and up-to-date information about insurance coverage and benefits.

• Integration with healthcare providers: Integrating the app with healthcare providers can improve the overall user experience by allowing for easier access to medical records and appointment scheduling. It also ensures that information is shared securely and accurately between the app and healthcare providers.

• Data analytics: The use of data analytics can provide valuable insights for both users and insurance companies. This can include identifying patterns in health data to improve personalized treatment plans, as well as tracking trends in insurance usage to inform policy decisions.

Must Read: Step-By-Step Guide on Mobile App HIPAA Compliance

Are Oscar-like services really in demand? 

The demand for health insurance apps, similar to Oscar, has increased in recent years due to the rise of digital technology and consumer preference for convenient and user-friendly services. With the growing popularity of smartphones and mobile applications, it is no surprise that more people are looking for healthcare services that can be accessed through their devices.

1. Should I create a health insurance app for the US if there’s already an Oscar? 

While there may already be a popular health insurance app in the US market, this does not mean that there is no room for competition. Having more options can benefit consumers by providing them with a variety of choices and potentially driving down costs through competitive pricing.

Furthermore, your health insurance app could differentiate itself from Oscar by offering unique features or targeting a specific demographic or niche. This could attract a different set of users who may not be interested in Oscar’s services.

2. Is there a demand for private health insurance in other countries?  

Yes, there is a significant demand for private health insurance in various countries across the globe. In some nations, private health insurance takes precedence as the primary form of coverage, providing individuals with comprehensive healthcare options. On the other hand, in certain countries, private health insurance acts as a supplementary means to bolster existing public healthcare systems, offering additional benefits and services to those who seek more extensive coverage.

For instance, in Canada, private health insurance plays a crucial role in covering services that are not included in the publicly funded healthcare system. This allows individuals to have access to a wider range of medical treatments and procedures, ensuring comprehensive care for their specific needs. Similarly, in Germany, despite having a robust universal healthcare coverage system, approximately 11% of the population opts for private health insurance. This choice empowers individuals to have greater control over their healthcare options, including shorter wait times for specialized treatments and access to a broader network of healthcare providers.

By embracing private health insurance, individuals in these countries can enjoy enhanced healthcare benefits, personalized care, and greater flexibility in choosing their medical providers. This diverse landscape of private health insurance around the world reflects the unique healthcare needs and preferences of individuals in different regions, ultimately striving towards a more inclusive and comprehensive healthcare system for all.

How much does it cost to build a health insurance app like Oscar?

The cost of building a health insurance app like Oscar can vary depending on the features, functionalities, and complexity of the app. It is estimated that developing a basic health insurance app can cost anywhere from $5000 to $10,000. However, if the app requires more advanced features like real-time claims processing, telemedicine services, and personalized healthcare plans, the cost can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more. Additionally, factors such as app design, development platform, and integration with third-party services can also impact the overall cost of building a health insurance app like Oscar.

• Market Research and Planning: Before any development begins, research into the target market and thorough planning is essential. This step can cost between $1,000 and $5,000, involving competitor analysis, identifying user needs, and establishing app objectives.

• UI/UX Design: The next step is crafting a user-friendly design, which is crucial for keeping users engaged. Designing the UI/UX might cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the complexity and number of screens.

• App Development: This is the most variable cost, as it depends on the complexity of the features. Basic app development with standard features might range from $20,000 to $50,000, while an app with advanced functionality can easily exceed $100,000.

• Quality Assurance: To ensure the app functions properly, thorough testing is conducted, which can cost between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the number of test cycles and the complexity of the features.

• Maintenance and Support: Post-launch, the app will require continuous support and updates, which could incur a cost of around 15-20% of the initial development cost annually.

• Marketing: To reach your audience, marketing expenses should also be considered, potentially adding $5,000 to $20,000 to the initial investment, based on the scale and channels of marketing.

How can iTechnolabs help you build a health insurance app like Oscar?

iTechnolabs is a professional app development company that can assist you in building a health insurance app similar to Oscar. Our experienced team of developers and designers can help you navigate the entire process, from market research and planning to post-launch maintenance and support.

We understand the importance of user-friendly design and strive to create an intuitive UI/UX that will keep your users engaged. Our team also has expertise in developing both basic and advanced features, so we can cater to your specific needs and budget.

In addition, we conduct thorough quality assurance testing to ensure the app functions properly before launch. Our ongoing support and maintenance services will ensure that your app remains up-to-date and functioning smoothly.

• Expert Development Team: By leveraging the expertise of iTechnolabs’ seasoned developers, you can ensure that your health insurance app is built with precision and tailored to meet the specific needs of the ever-evolving healthcare market. Their deep understanding of industry best practices and the latest technologies enables them to create a robust and scalable solution that addresses the unique challenges of the healthcare industry.
• Market Research & Planning: With their strategic market analysis, iTechnolabs can provide valuable insights into the current trends and consumer demands in the healthcare sector. This helps in aligning your app with the market needs, ensuring that it stands out from the competition and lays a strong foundation for success. Their meticulous planning and research-based approach enable them to identify potential opportunities and devise effective strategies to maximize the app’s impact.
• Custom UI/UX Design: With a strong focus on user engagement, iTechnolabs excels in crafting intuitive and visually appealing interfaces that enhance the overall user experience. Their UI/UX designers are adept at understanding user behavior and preferences, enabling them to create seamless and user-friendly app interfaces. By simplifying the user journey and incorporating thoughtful design elements, they ensure that users have a delightful and satisfying experience while interacting with your app.
• Feature Development: Whether you require essential functionalities or advanced capabilities, iTechnolabs’ development team has the expertise to deliver a highly customized and feature-rich app that caters to your target audience. They collaborate closely with clients to understand their specific requirements and business goals, ensuring that the app is equipped with the right set of features to meet those objectives. With their deep technical knowledge and innovative mindset, they can bring your app ideas to life and provide a competitive edge in the market.
• Quality Assurance Testing: At iTechnolabs, rigorous testing protocols are in place to ensure that every aspect of the app performs optimally upon launch. Their dedicated quality assurance team conducts comprehensive testing to identify and resolve any technical issues, bugs, or performance bottlenecks. By conducting thorough testing across various devices and scenarios, they ensure that your app delivers a seamless and error-free experience to users, enhancing its reliability and credibility.
• Maintenance & Support: iTechnolabs offers ongoing maintenance and support services to keep your app updated and optimized for the evolving market needs. They understand the importance of staying relevant in the ever-changing digital landscape and provide timely updates and enhancements to ensure that your app remains competitive. Additionally, their round-the-clock support team is readily available to address any operational issues, providing prompt resolutions and minimizing any downtime that could impact user experience.
• Marketing Support: Recognizing that a great product needs visibility, iTechnolabs goes beyond development to offer marketing support for your app. With their expertise in digital marketing and user acquisition strategies, they can guide your marketing efforts to effectively reach and captivate your target users. From optimizing app store listings to implementing targeted advertising campaigns, they can help you create a strong brand presence and drive user engagement for your app.

Suggested: A Brief Guide for Medical Software Development

Are you looking for healthcare software development services?

In the world of health insurance, apps like Oscar require a partner who can not only provide robust development services but also ensure the security and confidentiality of sensitive data. iTechnolabs brings to the table their expertise in creating secure, user-friendly, and compliant mobile applications tailored to the healthcare industry. They take into account stringent regulatory standards like HIPAA to safeguard user data, ensuring every feature of the app maintains the highest level of data privacy. Moreover, with their robust maintenance and support structure, iTechnolabs ensures that the app stays updated with the latest healthcare policies and data protection protocols, providing users with a reliable and trustworthy digital tool for managing their health insurance needs.

• Comprehensive Security: At iTechnolabs, we prioritize the protection of sensitive health insurance data. Our commitment to security is unwavering, as we employ state-of-the-art measures to meet HIPAA standards. Rest assured, patient information is always kept confidential and secure through our robust security protocols.
• Targeted Expertise: We specialize in the healthcare sector, allowing us to offer tailored solutions that seamlessly integrate with the unique demands of health insurance applications like Oscar. Our deep understanding of the industry enables us to address specific challenges and deliver solutions that cater to your needs.
• Commitment to Compliance: With healthcare policies constantly evolving, we ensure that our app’s features are consistently updated to comply with current regulations. By staying up-to-date, we instill user trust and maintain legal conformity, giving you peace of mind in an ever-changing landscape.
• Reliable Maintenance: Our dedication to providing ongoing support and proactive maintenance strategies ensures that your health insurance app remains operational, efficient, and relevant to your users’ needs. We take care of the technical aspects so that you can focus on delivering the best experience to your customers.
• User-Focused Design: Recognizing the importance of user experience, we prioritize creating intuitive user interfaces that simplify complex insurance processes. Our designs are aimed at enhancing accessibility and engagement, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with the app seamlessly.

Conclusion:  

At iTechnolabs, we understand the crucial role that health insurance plays in people’s lives and strive to provide exceptional solutions that cater to the evolving needs of both providers and users. With our team of experts, commitment to security and compliance, reliable maintenance strategies, and user-focused design approach, you can trust us to deliver a robust and seamless health insurance app experience.