Short-Term Health Insurance
Get temporary health insurance to cover gaps in coverage fast
Get affordable short-term health insurance when you need it
With a short-term health insurance plan, you can enjoy the peace of mind of being covered without the expense of major medical insurance. When you quote through Progressive Health by eHealth, you can compare over 3,600 plans from 16+ carriers, giving you the power to find coverage that fits your lifestyle. Short-term health insurance policies include coverage lengths ranging from one month to three years, so you can easily fill gaps in coverage.*
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Choices
3,600+ plans
So you can choose the right plan for you.
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Carriers
16+
Insurance companies offering short-term health solutions.
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Length
1 mo.-3 yrs.
Is the range of coverage lengths you can choose from.*
Get a quote today and find a temporary health insurance plan that works for you.
What does short-term health insurance cover?
A temporary health insurance plan usually covers healthcare costs related to emergencies, such as accidents or serious illnesses. Some plans also offer coverage for emergency room visits, as well as discounts for prescription drugs. These plans typically won’t cover maternity leave, mental health services, substance abuse, and pre-existing conditions.
If you have ongoing medical needs, an individual health insurance plan may be a better fit, as you’ll receive long-lasting coverage for many more services. Have more questions about your health insurance options? Learn more with our Health Insurance 101 guide.
When to get short-term health insurance
If you’re looking for health insurance while between jobs or waiting for enrollment in a major medical plan, then purchasing a short-term health insurance plan may be right for you. Here is a full list of situations where you may want a temporary health plan:
- Transitioning between jobs
- Waiting for benefits to start at your new job
- Missed open enrollment deadline for ACA insurance
- Waiting for Medicare eligibility
- Turning 26 and coming off your parents’ insurance
Short-term health insurance vs. Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance
When comparing short-term health insurance against ACA insurance, it’s important to consider your overall healthcare needs. A short-term plan is meant to bridge the gap in health insurance coverage for those who temporarily lack major medical insurance. It’s not meant as a replacement for a comprehensive health insurance plan, especially for those with chronic medical conditions.
Additionally, short-term health insurance isn’t ACA-compliant, meaning it doesn’t meet the minimum essential coverage required under the Affordable Care Act, nor does it qualify for premium subsidies. Nevertheless, the monthly cost of a temporary health insurance plan is considerably lower than major health insurance, providing cost-effective protection during long gaps in coverage.
