The deadline to enroll in health benefits for the year is fast approaching. By Jan. 31, you must enroll in a new health insurance plan for the year, or update your previous one. Having health insurance and choosing a primary care doctor are the best ways to keep you and your family healthy.

Quick primer: If you are not getting health insurance through a group or employer plan, you’ll likely be shopping on the individual health insurance marketplace (a resource for individuals and families to shop for and sign up for a health insurance plan). Though 2016 has already started, you do have until the end of January to sign up for a health insurance plan.

According to the federal government, most people in the U.S. must have health insurance, or pay a fee. Some consumers may qualify for savings on health insurance. To find out more, visit www.healhcare.gov/lower-costs.

Since the process to enroll in health insurance can be complex – due to changing costs and premiums, as well as insurance companies debuting new plans – here are three things to keep in mind when choosing health insurance.

1. Your budget

Just like with car buying or grocery shopping, the value of health plans isn’t the same everywhere. For many families, the no. 1 factor in choosing a health plan is keeping premiums and out-of-pocket costs low.

Keep in mind that the premium is only one cost of the health plan. Make sure you understand any co-pays, co-insurance or out-of-pocket costs associated with the plan, as well. This will give you a better idea of the plan’s value.

2. Quality of care

Let’s start with the good news about health insurance: all private health plans are required to cover the same basic set of benefits, such as preventative services, emergency care and prescription drugs.

While your family is likely to see a primary care doctor for annual exams, a flu shot or to update a prescription, it’s important to think beyond the normal yearly visits. Don’t overlook the quality of hospitals and doctors you can see, and take into account any specialty care, such as a children’s hospital or heart treatments, that you may unexpectedly need.

3. Convenience

With busy lifestyles, being able to visit a doctor close to home is important. And a health insurance plan is even stronger if it provides access to an entire healthcare system. This means that patient records are easily viewed by all doctors across the system, whether that’s a primary care office or a specialist. Take note of which urgent cares and emergency departments are in your neighborhood, and whether those are in-network in your health plan.

For more information about health insurance plans that provide affordability, world-class care and convenience, visit CarolinasHealthCare.org/Marketplace.