Short-Term Health Insurance as Bridge Coverage
Temporary medical coverage for a gap between jobs or before another health plan begins.
Short-term medical insurance may be available outside open enrollment. It is separate from ACA Marketplace coverage and may involve health questions, preexisting-condition exclusions, and benefit limits. Marketplace subsidies do not apply.
When it fits
- A gap between jobs, before the next plan starts.
- A wait until Marketplace open enrollment, when a special enrollment period is not available.
- Someone who has already compared Marketplace and a private plan and still wants something temporary.
When to consider other coverage
Compare Marketplace coverage first if you may qualify for financial assistance or need coverage for preexisting conditions. Other private plans may also be available. Consider short-term coverage only after reviewing its limitations alongside those options.
Short-term coverage is not guaranteed issue and is not required to cover all ACA essential health benefits. Review the policy’s exclusions and benefit limits before applying.