Temporary health insurance, or short-term health insurance, can be a godsend when you require immediate coverage for a limited period. This affordable alternative can fill gaps in coverage, especially during life transitions.
Arizona Health Insurance Experts, a trusted name in the health insurance industry, is here to enlighten Arizonans about the ins and outs of short-term health insurance and how having a plan like this in place can serve as a safety net during uncertain times.
What is Temporary Health Insurance in Arizona?
An Arizona temporary health insurance is designed to provide coverage for a specific short-term period. This period can range from as little as three months to as long as 364 days in Arizona, following the Arizona Senate Bill 1109 passed in 2019. The law extended the maximum length of short-term plans from 185 to 364 days, with the possibility of renewal for up to 36 months.
These plans can be a lifesaver if you’re:
- In between jobs
- Waiting for other coverage to start
- Young adults aging out of their parent’s coverage
- Missing the open enrollment period
- Losing AHCCCS (Arizona’s Medicaid program) due to nationwide Medicaid Rewind
- Unable to afford traditional health insurance premiums
Cost of Temporary Health Insurance in Arizona
The good news is that short-term health plans tare usually less expensive than traditional health insurance plans.
Keep in mind, though, that costs such as premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and maximum out-of-pocket payments can vary significantly from plan to plan. For example, one plan might have a $74.20 monthly premium with a $10,000 deductible, while another could have a $172.30 premium with a $5,000 deductible.
Always consider your potential medical expenses and budget before choosing a plan. Higher premium plans usually offer better coverage and lower out-of-pocket costs, but they might not be necessary if you’re in good health and don’t anticipate high medical bills.
Related: A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Health Insurance in Arizona
Purchasing Short-Term Insurance Plans
Unlike traditional health insurance plans, temporary health insurance plans are not available via HealthCare.gov. Instead, you’ll need to shop directly with insurance providers that offer these plans within the state.
As of 2023, seven insurers were selling short-term health insurance plans in Arizona, offering a diverse range of choices to consumers.
To ensure you get the best options for your healthcare needs and budget, request quotes from multiple insurers, or better yet, work with an independent health insurance broker who will get the quotes for you (for free!).
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Is Temporary Health Insurance Right for You?
While temporary health insurance offers many benefits, this option is not the best fit for everyone in Arizona. For instance, many short-term health insurance plans do not cover preexisting conditions and often limit coverage for certain services, such as preventive care, mental health services, and maternity care.
If you’re in good health and only visit the doctor occasionally, a short-term plan might be suitable.
However, a traditional family health insurance plan might be a better fit if you have a chronic condition or need frequent care.
Related: Do Arizonans Need Health Insurance?
Working with an Independent Health Insurance Broker
Navigating the murky waters of health insurance can be complex and intimidating. Chances are you are unfamiliar with the insurance industry jargon, limitations, and other factors that go into purchasing a short-term health insurance plan.
This is why you should consider working with an independent health insurance broker. These professionals are right in your neighborhood and can meet with you in person or over the phone, and no computer skills are needed to get you a dependable plan within your budget.
Independent health insurance brokers can simplify the process for you, explain confusing jargon, and save you both the time and stress of finding insurance on your own.
Whereas a health insurance agent is generally tied to one insurance company, independent health insurance brokers can access a broad range of insurance products from multiple carriers and provide personalized advice based on your unique needs and circumstances.
And the best part of working with an independent broker for temporary health insurance is that they provide their services at zero cost to you. You can benefit from their experience and knowledge without ever paying them a dime.
Don’t Let Another Moment Pass Without Coverage for You and Your Family
Short-term health insurance plans fill a temporary need for coverage while transitioning into a new phase of your life. These plans can provide a valuable safety net during times of transition or uncertainty.
At Arizona Health Insurance Experts, we are dedicated to connecting our fellow Arizonans to local independent health insurance brokers who can make this process easier and provide the expert advice and support you need to make an informed decision.
Getting started is easy and free – connect with an Arizona health insurance agent today.