SHORT TERM HEALTH INSURANCE
Affordable, flexible short-term health insurance plans
Coverage that can start as soon as you apply
Short-term Health Insurance plans can help in these situations:
- Change of employment
- Need proof of insurance? A short-term health insurance plan can be quick and affordable.
- Waiting for coverage? A short-term health insurance plan can protect you in the meantime.
When you need Short Term Care, you may not know where to turn. With Plan IV you will get the best options laid out to help you make an informed decision for your Short Term Health Insurance needs.
We all need to Plan IV something!
For more information, contact Plan IV.
Frequently Asked Questions About Short Term Health Insurance
Plan IV helps Michigan residents understand when short term health insurance may be useful, how long coverage can last, what it may exclude, and how it differs from comprehensive health insurance.
What is short term health insurance?
Short term health insurance is temporary medical coverage intended to help fill a limited gap between health plans. It is not a replacement for comprehensive health insurance and may provide fewer benefits and consumer protections than a Marketplace or employer plan.
Who might consider short term health insurance?
Short term coverage may be considered when you are between jobs, waiting for new employer coverage to begin, or temporarily without another health plan. Before enrolling, it is important to check whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that would allow you to purchase comprehensive coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
How long can short term health insurance last in Michigan?
In Michigan, short term limited duration insurance is limited to 185 days within a 365 day period with the same insurance company. The policy cannot be renewed or extended beyond that limit with the same insurer.
Does short term health insurance cover preexisting conditions?
Short term health plans are not required to cover preexisting conditions. An insurance company may review your health history, exclude certain conditions, limit benefits, or determine that you are not eligible for a particular plan.
Does short term insurance cover the same benefits as a Marketplace plan?
Not necessarily. Short term plans are not required to include all essential health benefits or follow several of the protections that apply to comprehensive health insurance. Coverage for prescriptions, preventive care, maternity care, mental health services, and other medical needs may be limited or excluded depending on the policy.
Can I buy short term health insurance outside Open Enrollment?
Short term plans are sold outside the Health Insurance Marketplace and may be available outside the annual Open Enrollment period. Availability, approval, coverage dates, and premiums depend on the insurer, the policy, and your eligibility.
What should I compare before choosing a short term health plan?
Review the deductible, coinsurance, provider network, maximum benefit, prescription coverage, exclusions, preexisting condition rules, policy end date, and services that are not covered. A lower monthly premium does not always mean lower total costs if the policy has significant exclusions or benefit limits.
Can Plan IV help me compare short term health insurance options?
Yes. Plan IV helps individuals across Michigan review available short term plans, understand their costs and limitations, and compare them with other coverage options before enrolling.