With the election still fresh in mind, you may be disheartened to hear a new campaign is being launched – that is, until you hear more.

Cover Arizona, a coalition comprised of over 600 community and statewide organizations -- including the Arizona PIRG Education Fund -- is mounting an effort devoid of negative advertising, contradictory campaign signs and robocalls to educate Arizonans on their health insurance options and rights and to help with enrollment.

We know that dealing with health insurance can be tricky. In fact, looking for health insurance raises all kinds of questions: Can I afford it? Will I get denied if I have a pre-existing condition? Where do I look to find a decent plan?

But let’s face it: not getting insured is even worse. An accident or a serious illness can mean getting stuck with huge medical debt or going broke.

Fortunately, with the right facts and resources, Arizonans can make intelligent and informed health insurance choices. Whether you are seeking health insurance for the first time or you are considering a change of plans, the Arizona PIRG Education Fund’s top tips for seeking health insurance include:

1. Shop around. Although health insurance plans must now consist of a variety of services including preventative care, doctor visits, hospitalizations, maternity care, emergency room care, prescriptions and more; plans range from catastrophic with high deductibles to plans with more comprehensive coverage often with a lower deductible. To learn more about your health insurance options, check out healthcare.gov.

2. Select your plan based on needs. Before picking or renewing a plan, make sure you understand the out-of-pocket costs and the potential total costs for the year. Also know what is covered, what is excluded, and what providers are included in the plan’s network. Use the checklist at www.arizonapirgedfund.org for help.

3. Find out if you can pay less, or get more for your money. Many Arizonans are qualifying for financial help that could lower your monthly premium or out-of-pocket costs. While health insurance costs depend on your specific financial situation and medical needs, individuals in Arizona earning $16,000 a year or less are likely to qualify for AHCCCS, and individuals earning $40,000 a year or less are likely to qualify for financial assistance in the health insurance marketplace.

4. Get help comparing your options and applying. In addition to insurance agents and brokers, specially trained people such as navigators, certified application counselors and application assisters are available to help at no cost to you. You can find people in your area at coveraz.org/connector or by calling 211.

5. Remember the health insurance marketplace is open from November 15, 2014 – February 15, 2015. The time to enroll or switch your health insurance plan is now.

As the holiday season approaches, give yourself the gift of health insurance – a gift that provides some peace of mind and financial security if you are or become in need of medical attention.

Diane E. Brown is executive director of the Arizona PIRG Education Fund. The Arizona PIRG Education Fund conducts research and education on issues in the public interest.