Short Term Health Insurance in California: What You Need to Know

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Are you looking for short term health insurance in California? This type of coverage can provide you with temporary medical insurance to cover unexpected injuries or illnesses. Whether you are between jobs, waiting for your employer coverage to start, or simply need a temporary solution, short term health insurance could be a good fit for you.

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What is Short Term Health Insurance?

Short term health insurance is a type of medical insurance that provides coverage for a limited period of time, typically from 30 days to 12 months. It is designed to bridge the gap between longer-term health insurance coverage, such as employer-sponsored insurance or individual policies purchased through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchanges.

While short term health insurance plans do not offer the comprehensive coverage of ACA-compliant plans, they typically cover many of the same basic medical services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, and emergency care. They can also be more affordable than longer-term insurance plans, making them an attractive option for many people.

Short Term Health Insurance in California

California is one of several states that has placed restrictions on short term health insurance plans. In 2018, California passed a law that limits the duration of short term health insurance plans to just six months. This means that if you purchase a short term health plan in California, you will only be covered for up to six months at a time.

In addition to the duration limit, California also requires short term health plans to provide certain minimum benefits, such as coverage for preventive care and mental health. The law also prohibits short term health plans from discriminating against individuals based on health status or pre-existing conditions.

Benefits of Short Term Health Insurance in California

Despite the restrictions in California, short term health insurance can offer many benefits for those who need temporary coverage. Here are some of the advantages of short term health insurance:

Advantages
Disadvantages
Lower premiums
Limited coverage
Flexibility in coverage length
No guaranteed renewal
No open enrollment period
Not ACA-compliant
Quick and easy approval process
No coverage for pre-existing conditions

How to Buy Short Term Health Insurance in California

If you are interested in purchasing short term health insurance in California, there are a few things you need to know. First, you can only purchase short term health insurance during certain times of the year, known as enrollment periods. These periods typically last for a few weeks or months and may vary depending on the insurer.

When shopping for short term health insurance, it’s important to carefully review the coverage options and limitations. Make sure you understand the duration of the plan, the types of services covered, and any cost-sharing requirements or deductibles.

You should also be aware of any exclusions or limitations on coverage for pre-existing conditions. Short term health plans typically do not cover pre-existing conditions, so if you have a chronic health condition, you may want to consider other health insurance options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is short term health insurance in California the same as regular health insurance?

No, short term health insurance is not the same as regular health insurance. Short term health insurance plans provide temporary coverage for a limited period of time, while regular health insurance offers longer-term coverage and must comply with the requirements of the Affordable Care Act.

Can I get short term health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Short term health insurance plans typically do not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have a chronic health condition, you may want to consider other health insurance options.

How long can I have short term health insurance in California?

Under California law, short term health insurance plans are limited to a duration of six months.

Is short term health insurance cheaper than regular health insurance?

Short term health insurance plans are typically less expensive than regular health insurance plans, but they also provide less comprehensive coverage. The cost of short term health insurance will vary depending on factors such as your age, health status, and the duration of the plan.

Can I renew my short term health insurance plan in California?

California law does not require insurers to offer renewals for short term health insurance plans. If you want to extend your coverage beyond the initial six-month period, you will need to apply for a new plan.

Overall, short term health insurance can be a good option for those who need temporary coverage in California. Just be sure to carefully review your options and understand the limitations and exclusions of your plan before making a decision.

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