Affordable Temporary Health Insurance

Temporary health insurance can help cover gaps in insurance coverage if you lose your job, are transitioning between jobs or if you're a small business owner in need of short-term coverage while searching for affordable health care. Temporary health insurance covers basic medical costs or medical emergencies. Most temporary health insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions.

What is Temporary Health Insurance?

• Temporary health insurance is short-term health insurance coverage (30 days or up to 12 months) that usually covers basic medical care, hospital costs, and in some cases, prescription costs. If you recently lost your job, are a recent college graduate, are a small business owner that needs time to find a permanent health care plan or you have to wait for medical benefits from a new job to take effect, you may want to purchase a temporary health insurance policy.

Temporary Health Insurance Coverage

• Temporary health insurance is meant to cover medical costs from accidents or unforeseen medical issues. Those who have pre-existing conditions are unlikely to receive coverage. Pre-existing conditions are certain medical issues that have been diagnosed by a health practitioner at least three to five years in advance. Pre-existing conditions vary from insurer to insurer.

Tips for Finding Affordable Temporary Health Insurance

• Affordable temporary health insurance policies are sold by many insurance companies. To keep health insurance costs low, take out a policy that covers only the time you need it. For example, if you hope to find a job with health benefits within three months, take out a three-month policy.
  Other ways to reduce health insurance costs include:
  -Choose a policy that only covers basic medical care and hospital costs (does not include prescription costs).
  -Compare multiple policies before selecting one.
  -Choose a plan that allows you to pay month-to-month instead of biannually or annually.
  -Add health insurance to your car or homeowner's insurance policies if your insurance provider sells health insurance coverage. Bundling different types of insurance can save you money.

  If you recently lost your job, you automatically qualify for COBRA, which is regulated by the federal government. Under COBRA, you can maintain your current health insurance coverage by paying the full premium (premium paid by you and your employer) for up to 18 months. While this may not be the most affordable health insurance coverage available, you will not be turned down for any reason, even if you have a pre-existing condition.