What's covered with short-term health insurance

Short-term health insurance covers medical services such as doctor visits, emergency care, hospital stays and more. Coverage details vary by plan, so it’s important to check which services are covered.

Plans may include: 

• Prescription drugs
• Preventive visits
• Childhood immunizations
• Mental health and substance abuse benefits
• Joint, neck and spine injuries
• Maternity care

Pre-existing conditions exclusions may prevent coverage from applying to medical conditions. Monthly premiums are typically lower when compared with ACA insurance plans sold on the health care Marketplace, but remember that out-of-pocket costs can be higher for medical services.

Who needs short-term health coverage?

People love the flexibility of short-term health insurance. This type of insurance is ideal for:

• People between jobs: If you're temporarily unemployed and without health coverage.
• Recent graduates: Those who are transitioning from school to the workforce.
• Early retirees: Waiting for Medicare eligibility and need interim coverage.
• Lost coverage: Individuals aging out of a parent's plan or losing COBRA coverage.
• Travelers: People who need coverage while outside their network

How It Works

While shopping for gap coverage, be sure to compare plans, understand what's covered, and read the fine print before making a decision. Here’s what to expect while shopping:

Compare plans: Enter your zip code to view plans in your area, select the coverage duration and benefits that best meet your needs.

Apply online: Fill out a simple application with basic health information to view rates.

Get coverage: Enroll in a plan and activate your benefits.

Use your plan: Access the services covered by your policy and enjoy peace of mind.

Is short-term health insurance worth it?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for filling gaps between comprehensive health plans, short-term health insurance is an ideal way to gain peace of mind, stay healthy and protect your budget. However, a short-term plan may not be the best fit if you have ongoing health issues or require extensive coverage.

Frequently asked questions with short-term health insurance

When can I enroll?

One of the best benefits of short-term health insurance is you can apply any time with flexible enrollment dates with coverage options beginning as early as tomorrow.

Can I renew my short-term health insurance plan?

A: Some plans offer renewal options, but others do not. Be sure to check with your provider if you need coverage beyond the initial term.

Are prescriptions covered?

Prescription coverage varies by plan. Some short-term policies offer limited prescription benefits, while others may exclude them altogether.

Will I be covered for pre-existing conditions?

Most short-term health insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have ongoing health issues, a short-term plan may not be sufficient.

How quickly does coverage start?

Coverage can start as soon as the next day after your application is approved, making it a fast option for those needing immediate coverage.