Short Term Medical
Stay Protected Between Plans with Short-Term Health Insurance
Life doesn’t always go according to schedule—and a gap in health coverage can leave you financially exposed. Short-term health insurance offers an affordable and flexible solution for individuals between jobs, waiting for employer benefits to begin, or in transition. It helps cover unexpected medical expenses and provides peace of mind until long-term coverage is in place.
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Short-Term Medical
Short-term medical insurance is a temporary coverage solution designed to fill gaps when traditional health insurance isn’t available. These policies typically last from a few months up to one year, depending on your state and insurer.
Short-term plans are ideal for people in transition, including:
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Individuals between jobs
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Those waiting for employer coverage to start
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Early retirees
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Recent graduates aging off a parent’s plan
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People outside of Open Enrollment who don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
While not intended as a permanent solution, short-term health insurance offers essential protection against unexpected medical costs when you need coverage the most.
How Short-Term Medical Insurance Can Help You
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Short-term medical insurance delivers rapid approval and same-day or next-day coverage, helping you avoid gaps when life throws you a curveball. Whether you’re between jobs or waiting for permanent insurance to begin, it offers a quick, reliable safety net when you need it most.
Benefits of Short Term Medical Insurance
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Short term medical insurance plans typically offer lower monthly premiums than traditional health insurance, making them a budget-friendly solution for temporary coverage needs. They’re ideal when affordability matters and long-term options aren’t accessible or necessary.
Know the Limits—and Trust the Guidance
While short term medical insurance can be a smart solution during coverage gaps, it’s important to understand its limitations. These plans typically offer less comprehensive coverage than long-term medical insurance and often exclude pre-existing conditions, preventive care, and other essential benefits required under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As such, they are best suited for individuals who are generally healthy and need temporary, affordable protection.
At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we go beyond simply providing a policy. We’re committed to clear guidance, tailored solutions, and building lasting relationships based on trust and results. Our dedication to doing what’s right—for every client, every time—is what sets us apart.
No-Obligation Consultation: Stay Covered Through Life’s Transitions
Short term medical insurance is a practical, affordable solution for those facing gaps in coverage—whether due to job changes, waiting periods, or other unexpected transitions. While it’s not a long-term substitute, it offers customizable protection, fast approval, and coverage that can begin as soon as the next day.
At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we’ll help you compare top short term plans and guide you toward the one that fits your health needs and budget.
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FAQs: Short-Term Medical Insurance
What is short-term medical insurance?
Short-term medical (STM) is temporary health coverage designed to bridge gaps—like between jobs, outside open enrollment, or waiting for other coverage to begin.
Who is STM best for?
People who are generally healthy and need affordable, stopgap coverage for a defined period—e.g., recent grads, job changers, early retirees, or those outside ACA enrollment windows.
How long can coverage last?
It varies by state and plan. Terms often range from 30 days up to several months, with limited renewals or consecutive terms permitted in some states.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Typically, no. STM plans usually exclude pre-existing conditions and may include look-back periods. New illnesses or injuries after the start date are generally eligible subject to plan limits.
Do STM plans cover essential health benefits like ACA plans?
No. STM is not ACA-compliant and may exclude maternity, mental health, preventive care, prescription drugs, or other benefits. Review the plan brochure carefully.
How do deductibles, coinsurance, and maximums work?
You choose a deductible and coinsurance level. After you meet the deductible, the plan pays a percentage up to a coverage maximum (per-term or per-cause limits may apply).
Can I see any doctor?
Many STM plans use PPO networks for discounted rates. Out-of-network benefits may be limited or not covered. Check the provider directory before enrolling.
Is there underwriting?
Yes. STM usually asks health questions and can decline applications based on medical history. Claims may be reviewed against pre-existing condition exclusions.
How fast can coverage start?
Often as soon as the next day after approval. Some benefits may have short waiting periods (e.g., accidents covered day one; illness after several days).
What does STM cost compared with ACA plans?
STM premiums are typically lower but with leaner benefits and more exclusions. ACA plans cost more on average but offer broader, guaranteed coverage and potential subsidies.
Can I cancel early or extend coverage?
You can usually cancel prospectively with no penalty; refunds for unused time vary by carrier. Extensions or new terms depend on state rules and underwriting.
What are alternatives to STM?
ACA marketplace plans (with subsidies when eligible), employer COBRA/continuation, Medicaid (if eligible), and limited-duration hospital indemnity or accident plans to pair with STM.
