Insurance

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This type of coverage is ideal for an individual that is in the middle of an insurance coverage gap. This gap is most commonly the result of switching jobs. Typically when someone switches jobs, they

This type of coverage is ideal for an individual that is in the middle of an insurance coverage gap. This gap is most commonly the result of switching jobs. Typically when someone switches jobs, they are subject to the new employer's probationary period before they are eligible for the new company's group policy. By law, COBRA coverage is available from the previous employer up to a set time period determined by the state, but from a practical standpoint, that coverage may be unaffordable. Since you do not want to be left uninsured, a short term health insurance policy is the next best option. A recent college graduate is another example of someone who might benefit from a short term health plan to cover them after their student health insurance expires until they find a job that offers employer-sponsored coverage. Another example would be a person that is currently uninsured and is awaiting approval on a standard (permanent) health insurance plan. This would provide them at least some temporary insurance coverage in the event that they are declined by the company with whom they are applying with for a permanent policy. In most cases, once an individual has been declined coverage for a permanent policy, they lose their eligibility to obtain coverage through a short term health insurance plan. Therefore, these short term insurance plan solutions can act as a temporary "safety net" when this occurs.

Are Short Term Health Insurance plans easy to get?
Typically yes, they are much easier to qualify for than a permanent health insurance plan. Eligibility is usually determined by answering just a few questions. Some commonly asked questions are:

1. Do you currently have health coverage that is not due to expire prior to your requested effective date of short term coverage?
2. Are you, or your spouse, currently pregnant?
3. Have you been declined coverage for permanent health insurance due to health reasons?
4. In the past few years, have you received treatment for heart problems, stroke, diabetes, cancer, blood disorders, diabetes, alcohol/drug dependency, or HIV/AIDS?

Answering yes to any of these questions may make you ineligible for coverage under a short term health insurance plan. Question #3 emphasizes the final example in the "who would purchase " section outlined above. If you are currently uninsured and shopping for health insurance, your first choice might be to obtain temporary health insurance coverage until you can find a permanent plan.

How quickly can I be covered by a Short Term Health Insurance plan?
In most cases, you can be covered within 24 hours. Unlike permanent health insurance, short term health insurance plans do not require a lengthy "underwriting" process. Your eligibility is determined by answering only a few questions. The application for an permanent individual insurance policy is much more lengthy and detailed as to your health history. In addition, a permanent policy application is thoroughly reviewed by the insurance company so that they may be certain the risk in providing you with health insurance is an acceptable one. If, on your application, you disclose health issues that cause concern, the insurance company may request medical records to better assist them in making a decision. This process can take several weeks at best, and may result in a decline of coverage.