Introduction
Healthcare costs in the USA are continuously rising, and not everyone needs or can afford a long-term health insurance plan. This is where short-term health insurance comes into play. Designed for temporary coverage, these plans provide essential medical benefits at an affordable cost. Whether you are between jobs, waiting for employer benefits, or need an alternative to expensive ACA (Affordable Care Act) plans, short-term health insurance can be a great option.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best short-term health insurance plans in the USA for 2025, including their benefits, costs, coverage options, pros and cons, and how to choose the right plan for your needs.
What is Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term health insurance is a temporary medical coverage plan that typically lasts from 30 days to 12 months, with some policies extendable up to 36 months. Unlike ACA-compliant plans, short-term health insurance does not cover all essential health benefits and may have exclusions for pre-existing conditions. However, they are often more affordable and flexible than traditional health plans.
Key Features of Short-Term Health Insurance:
- Coverage for doctor visits, emergency care, and hospitalization
- Lower monthly premiums than ACA-compliant plans
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions in most cases
- Can be purchased year-round (no enrollment period restrictions)
- Limited prescription drug coverage
- Does not include all ACA-mandated essential benefits
Who Should Consider Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term health insurance is ideal for individuals who:
- Are between jobs and waiting for employer-sponsored health insurance
- Need coverage outside the ACA Open Enrollment period
- Are recent college graduates without employer-provided coverage
- Are early retirees waiting for Medicare eligibility
- Need temporary coverage before qualifying for a long-term plan
- Want a low-cost alternative to COBRA coverage
However, it may not be suitable for those with pre-existing conditions or those who need comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Top 5 Best Short-Term Health Insurance Plans in the USA (2025)
1. UnitedHealthcare Short-Term Medical
- Coverage Length: Up to 12 months (renewable up to 36 months in some states)
- Monthly Premium: $90 – $250
- Key Benefits:
- Large national network of doctors and hospitals
- Offers prescription drug discounts
- Telemedicine included in most plans
- Best For: Those looking for a flexible and nationwide plan
2. Pivot Health Short-Term Health Insurance
- Coverage Length: 30 days to 364 days
- Monthly Premium: $80 – $200
- Key Benefits:
- Wide range of deductible options
- Includes doctor office visit coverage
- Discount programs for vision and dental care
- Best For: Affordable plans with customizable options
3. Everest Short-Term Health Insurance
- Coverage Length: Up to 364 days
- Monthly Premium: $85 – $210
- Key Benefits:
- Low out-of-pocket maximums
- Covers urgent care visits
- No referral needed for specialists
- Best For: Those needing affordable coverage for emergencies
4. National General Accident & Health
- Coverage Length: 30 days to 12 months
- Monthly Premium: $100 – $220
- Key Benefits:
- Good coverage for hospitalization and emergency room visits
- Large provider network
- Some plans offer preventive care coverage
- Best For: Those seeking hospital-focused coverage
5. IHC Group Short-Term Medical Insurance
- Coverage Length: 30 days to 36 months (state-dependent)
- Monthly Premium: $75 – $190
- Key Benefits:
- Offers multiple plan options with different levels of coverage
- Telemedicine access included
- Good for self-employed individuals
- Best For: Those looking for a highly customizable plan
Pros and Cons of Short-Term Health Insurance
Pros:
Lower Premiums: Short-term plans are significantly cheaper than ACA plans. Flexible Coverage Lengths: Choose from 30 days to 36 months. Quick Enrollment: No waiting period—coverage can start within 24 hours. Wide Availability: No restrictions on enrollment periods. Emergency & Urgent Care Coverage: Most plans cover hospitalization and emergency visits.
Cons:
No Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Most insurers deny coverage if you have pre-existing conditions. Limited Benefits: No maternity, mental health, or comprehensive prescription coverage. Not ACA-Compliant: Does not meet ACA essential coverage requirements, so you may face a penalty in some states. No Subsidies Available: You cannot use government subsidies to lower costs.
How Much Does Short-Term Health Insurance Cost in 2025?
The cost of short-term health insurance depends on various factors like age, location, coverage options, and the insurer. Below is an estimated breakdown:
| Age Group | Monthly Premium Range |
|---|---|
| 18 – 24 | $75 – $150 |
| 25 – 34 | $90 – $180 |
| 35 – 44 | $110 – $220 |
| 45 – 54 | $130 – $250 |
| 55 – 64 | $150 – $300 |
Additional Costs:
- Deductibles: Can range from $1,000 to $10,000
- Co-Payments: Some plans require co-pays for doctor visits and prescriptions
- Out-of-Pocket Maximums: Typically between $5,000 – $15,000
How to Choose the Best Short-Term Health Insurance Plan
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a short-term health plan:
- Coverage Limits & Exclusions: Ensure the plan covers essential medical needs.
- Network Providers: Check if your preferred doctors and hospitals accept the insurance.
- Deductibles & Co-Pays: Choose a plan with affordable out-of-pocket costs.
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Some plans offer minimal prescription benefits—verify before enrolling.
- Renewability Options: If you need coverage for more than a few months, check if renewal is allowed.
- Customer Reviews & Ratings: Research insurer reputation for claim processing and customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I renew my short-term health insurance policy?
Some insurers allow renewals for up to 36 months, but it depends on state laws and the provider.
2. Do short-term plans cover COVID-19 treatment?
Most plans cover COVID-19 hospitalizations but exclude testing and vaccines.
3. Can I get short-term health insurance with pre-existing conditions?
No, most insurers deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.
4. Is short-term health insurance cheaper than COBRA?
Yes, short-term plans are typically 50-80% cheaper than COBRA coverage.
5. When can I enroll in a short-term health insurance plan?
You can enroll anytime since there are no Open Enrollment restrictions.
Conclusion
Short-term health insurance provides an affordable and flexible option for those needing temporary coverage. While it doesn’t replace ACA plans, it’s a great alternative for healthy individuals between jobs or outside the enrollment period.
If you’re considering short-term health insurance, compare multiple providers, assess coverage options, and choose a plan that meets your needs while keeping costs manageable. 
Leave a Reply