Short-Term Health Insurance Plans
What Is Short-Term Health Insurance?
​
Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage for individuals who need protection during a gap in their regular health insurance. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and are designed to cover unexpected medical expenses, such as emergency room visits, hospital stays, and doctor services.
​
Unlike ACA (Obamacare) plans, short-term health insurance is not required to cover all essential health benefits. However, it offers fast, flexible, and affordable coverage options for people who need medical protection right away.
Who Should Consider a Short-Term Health Insurance Plan?
​
A short-term health plan can be a good fit if you’re:
-
Between jobs or waiting for employer coverage to begin
-
Self-employed and looking for a lower-cost option
-
Recently graduated and no longer on a parent’s plan
-
Waiting for Medicare eligibility
-
Outside of Open Enrollment and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
​​
These plans typically last 1 to 12 months (and can sometimes be renewed), giving you flexible, affordable coverage when you need it most.
What Short-Term Health Insurance Covers
​
While coverage varies by plan, most short-term medical insurance plans include:
-
Doctor and specialist visits
-
Hospitalization and emergency care
-
Surgery and outpatient services
-
Diagnostic tests and imaging
-
Some prescription drug coverage
​​
Short-term health insurance is primarily designed for unexpected illnesses or injuries — not for preventive care or ongoing medical conditions.