Short-Term Medical Insurance - Temporary Coverage

Outside of the individual market’s annual open enrollment period, a short-term health insurance policy might be your best option - especially without a qualifying event. Short-term plans generally provide temporary coverage when you need a bridge.

Unlike regular individual major medical plans, short-term health insurance policies are not regulated by the Affordable Care Act in the same way, and their sale is not limited to open enrollment windows. They are often used by people between jobs or waiting for a new employer’s coverage to become effective.

When a short-term policy can make sense

If you miss open enrollment and haven’t experienced a qualifying event, a short-term policy may provide temporary coverage in many states. Short-term plans are typically offered with a selection of premiums, deductibles, and benefit maximums, and healthy applicants can often secure coverage that starts quickly.

These policies may cover a range of physician services, surgery, and outpatient and inpatient care. Policyholders can often choose their own doctor and hospital, though there may be financial incentives for using in-network providers.

What short-term health insurance usually won’t cover

Short-term plans weren’t designed to cover everything, and they generally do not provide all of the ACA’s essential benefits. They typically won’t cover routine office visits, maternity, mental health, or preventive care the same way ACA plans do - and they usually won’t cover preexisting conditions. They also still use medical underwriting.

Be sure to check the list of exclusions on any policy. Contact Stellar Health Agency to find out if short-term coverage is an option for you.