Your Temporary Health Insurance Options Explained

Need temporary health insurance coverage? Losing your group cover doesn't have to mean going uninsured...

Types of Health Care Coverage Available to You:

What's your situation? You may not need temporary health insurance... Let's look at the types of cover available.

• Short Term Coverage – 6 months or less
  Short term coverage is ideal if you are between jobs or require coverage for a fixed period of 6 months or less. Coverage is purchased on a per diem basis.
  
  
• Traditional Coverage – for periods greater than six months
  Traditional coverage is the most common form of coverage. Coverage is continual so long as premium payments are received under the terms of the contract.
  
  
• Medicare and Medicare Supplement products – federal government coverage predominantly for mature individuals 65 years of age and older
  Medicare coverage is sponsored by the federal government. Visit Medicare to learn more. To select supplement Medicare coverage you may want to consider a Medicare-supplement plan.
  
  
• Medicaid – state administered health insurance program
  This type of coverage is available to individuals and families with limited income. Learn more about Medicaid program guidelines in your state and determine if you qualify online.
  

Things to Consider When Choosing An Health Insurance Carrier

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) recommends you consider the following when gauging the quality of a healthcare plan you are considering:

• Has the carrier been rated highly by its members on the things that are important to you?
• Does the plan do a good job of helping people stay well and get better.
• Is the plan accredited, if that is important to you.
• Does the network includes access to the doctors, hospitals and other medical providers you want or need.
• Does the plan provide the benefits you need.
• Does the plan provides services where and when you need them.
• Does the cost meet your budget.