Short-term health plans are a temporary health insurance option that can bridge gaps in coverage or provide coverage for people who are ineligible for other types of health insurance. In Texas, short-term health plans can be purchased for up to 364 days at a time and can be renewed for a total of up to 36 months.
Who should consider a short-term health plan in Texas?
Short-term health plans in Texas may be a good option for people who:
- Are between jobs and have a break in employer coverage
- Have retired before their Medicare coverage begins
- Missed the Open Enrollment Period for the Health Insurance Marketplace
- Are self-employed and do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance
- Are waiting for a long-term health insurance plan to kick in
Who can buy a short-term health plan in Texas?
Anyone can buy a short-term health plan in Texas, regardless of their health status. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Short-term health plans are not required to cover pre-existing conditions.
- Short-term health plans do not have to cover the same essential health benefits as Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans.
- Short-term health plans may have annual and lifetime coverage limits.
How long can I have a short-term health plan in Texas?
You can have a short-term health plan in Texas for up to 12 months at a time. You may be able to renew your plan for up to a total of 36 months, but this is not guaranteed.
How much does a short-term health plan cost in Texas?
The cost of a short-term health plan in Texas depends on a number of factors, including your age, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. However, short-term health plans are generally less expensive than ACA plans.
Can you get temporary health insurance in Texas?
Yes, you can get temporary health insurance in Texas. Short-term health insurance plans are available for purchase outside of the open enrollment period and can last for up to 36 months. However, these plans typically have limited benefits and may not cover pre-existing conditions.
How much is health insurance in Texas per month for one person?
The average cost of health insurance in Texas for one person is $469 per month in 2023. This is based on a 40-year-old non-smoker with a Silver plan. The actual cost of your health insurance will vary depending on your age, health, location, and other factors.
Is there free health insurance in Texas?
Yes, there is free health insurance in Texas through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Medicaid is for low-income individuals and families, while CHIP is for children from low-income families. To qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, you must meet certain income and residency requirements.
You can also get free health insurance in Texas through the following programs:
- Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) offers a variety of health insurance programs for low-income Texans, including the Primary and Specialty Health County Indigent Health Care Program, the Epilepsy Program, the Hemophilia Assistance Program, and the Kidney Health Care Program.
- Community health centers provide high-quality, low-cost health care on a sliding fee scale to individuals and their families regardless of age, health, insurance, or immigration status.
To find out more about free health insurance options in Texas, you can visit the Texas HHS website or contact your local community health center.
What are the pros and cons of short-term health plans in Texas?
Pros:
- Short-term health plans are generally less expensive than ACA plans.
- Short-term health plans can be a good option for people who are between jobs and waiting for new coverage to start, or who have recently retired and are waiting for Medicare to kick in.
- Short-term health plans can be purchased without having to go through a health insurance exchange.
Cons:
- Short-term health plans are not required to cover pre-existing conditions.
- Short-term health plans do not have to cover the same essential health benefits as ACA plans.
- Short-term health plans may have annual and lifetime coverage limits.
What do short-term health plans in Texas cover?
Short-term health plans in Texas typically cover a variety of essential health benefits, including:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Preventive care
- Emergency care
However, it is important to note that short-term health plans are not required to cover all of the essential health benefits required under the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, short-term health plans may not cover pre-existing conditions or certain types of medical care.
Where to buy a short-term health plan in Texas
You can purchase a short-term health plan in Texas directly from an insurance company or through a broker. There are also a number of online marketplaces that sell short-term health plans.
Trending questions about short-term health plans in Texas
Q: Do short-term health plans in Texas cover pre-existing conditions?
A: Short-term health plans in Texas are not required to cover pre-existing conditions. However, some short-term health plans may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but the coverage may be limited or may come with a higher premium.
Q: Can I renew my short-term health plan in Texas?
A: Yes, you can renew your short-term health plan in Texas for a total of up to 36 months. However, your insurance company may have different rules for renewing your plan. For example, your insurance company may require you to have a waiting period between renewals or may decline to renew your plan if you have filed a claim.
Q: Can I switch to a long-term health plan from a short-term health plan in Texas?
A: Yes, you can switch to a long-term health plan from a short-term health plan in Texas. However, you may have to qualify for the long-term health plan and you may not be able to switch plans if you have a pre-existing condition.
Conclusion
Short-term health plans in Texas can be a good option for people who need temporary health insurance coverage. However, it is important to understand the limitations of short-term health plans before you purchase one. Be sure to compare different plans and choose a plan that meets your needs and budget.
