Short-term health insurance
Temporary coverage meant to fill gaps, which may not cover all essential benefits or pre-existing conditions.
In plain English
A stopgap between plans, not a full replacement.
Why it matters when choosing a plan
Read exclusions carefully; it can leave big gaps compared with ACA plans.
Related terms
Pre-existing Condition
Navigating the American healthcare landscape requires a clear understanding of how your medical history impacts your access to care. A pre-existing condition is generally defined as any health issue, such as asthma, diabetes, or cancer, that you had before your new health coverage started.
Special Enrollment Period
Understanding how to secure health insurance outside of the standard yearly window is essential for maintaining your financial and physical well-being. A special enrollment period is a specific timeframe outside the annual Open Enrollment Period during which you can sign up for health insurance or change your existing plan.
Related guides and articles
The complete guide to choosing a health insurance plan
Choosing health insurance can feel overwhelming. There are unfamiliar terms, dozens of plans, and real money at stake.
Is short-term health insurance right for you? Pros, cons and gaps
Short-term health insurance often shows up as the cheapest option when you search for coverage. Sometimes it's a reasonable bridge.