What is Short Term Medical?

Sometimes, life leaves us without the health care we need. Whether you’re between jobs, a recent graduate, a seasonal worker, or simply in a period of transition, it can be challenging to find affordable, temporary health solutions. Short-term limited-duration health insurance was designed to meet these specific needs, helping people through brief but critical health coverage gaps. But now, with recent changes, some short-term health insurance plans are no longer available in certain states.

For those affected by this, finding a reliable, temporary solution that’s still affordable has become a pressing concern. Without it, you’re left feeling unprotected during an essential time. But let's dive in and discuss what short-term medical is, the recent changes across America, and what your options are if you need a short-term temporary medical solution.

What is Short-Term Medical

Short-term Medical is shorthand for short-term limited-duration health insurance, which is designed to offer temporary health care solutions, providing support for emergencies, basic doctor visits, and immediate treatments. Often chosen by individuals in transition, these plans are well-suited for anyone seeking flexible, temporary health options without the commitment of a long-term plan. With recent regulations, these plans now face stricter limitations. The federal rule finalized in 2023 limits the total duration of short-term medical plans to four months if renewed, a substantial reduction from the previous maximum of three years. These changes, primarily aimed at promoting more comprehensive long-term options, have led many individuals to seek out alternative options when they need short-term, affordable health solutions.

Short-term medical plans can be essential for individuals who experience coverage gaps or need additional support in specific situations. They are often used for:

Bridging Gaps Between Programs
Short-term medical provides temporary coverage for individuals waiting to start a new job or other benefits, offering peace of mind during a period of uncertainty.

Managing Life Transitions
Recent graduates, early retirees, or those in between plans find short-term medical options particularly useful. They offer a solution for individuals who may need a temporary health plan as they settle into new phases of life.

Coverage for Temporary or Seasonal Jobs
Those with temporary or seasonal work often need short-term options since these roles typically don’t offer benefits. Short-term medical provides flexible health support without a long-term commitment.

These options have become a valuable asset for individuals facing temporary health needs and uncertain life periods.

Recent Changes in Short-Term Medical Plans

In 2023, a finalized federal rule made significant adjustments to short-term medical plans, reducing their maximum duration to just four months. Previously, these plans could be extended for up to a three years in many states. The new rule means that individuals can no longer rely on these plans for extended temporary coverage. The intention behind this rule change is to encourage individuals toward more comprehensive, longer-term health programs and reduce dependency on short-term solutions.

This adjustment has created challenges for individuals who relied on short-term medical plans for flexible, budget-friendly health care during transitional periods. With fewer options, individuals in affected states may find themselves with limited choices for temporary coverage that aligns with their budget and needs.

For those affected by these changes, finding a dependable, affordable short-term solution is still possible with OneShare Health’s Catastrophic365 Program. This innovative program is not insurance like traditional short-term medical, but still offers a full year of affordable, temporary health care support through the sharing of medical expenses. This allows Members to maintain health care security throughout various life transitions or temporary employment.

Alternatives to Short-Term Medical

OneShare Health’s Catastrophic365 Program offers a practical and affordable alternative for those in need of temporary health support. As a recognized Health Care Sharing Ministry (HCSM), OneShare Health enables Members to share medical expenses, creating an affordable and supportive community-centered alternative to traditional health plans. The Catastrophic365 Program is specifically designed for individuals seeking low-cost, short-term health support:

Emergency Room Care
Catastrophic365 includes sharing eligibility for emergency room visits with a set Visit Fee, providing Members with predictable expenses when unexpected health events occur.

Virtual Urgent Care (Telemedicine)
Virtual Urgent Care is available 24/7, giving Members a quick, accessible way to receive care from home without extra costs.

X-rays, Labs, and Diagnostics
This program also provides sharing eligibility for essential diagnostics after meeting an Individual Sharing Amount (ISA), allowing Members to get the tests they need without worrying about excessive costs.

The Catastrophic365 Program serves as a dependable one-year option, giving Members confidence and security through temporary support. Whether it’s for life transitions or unanticipated health needs, Catastrophic365 can fill the gap if recent changes in short-term medical options have impacted you.

Enroll in Catastrophic365 Today

If you’re looking for an affordable, temporary health solution, OneShare Health’s Catastrophic365 Program may be the ideal option for you. With Member monthly contributions starting as low as $50.99, Catastrophic365 offers a reliable option for those seeking short-term health care solutions.

Reach out today to get a personalized quote and learn how OneShare Health’s Catastrophic365 can provide the support you need during your transition. Contact us now to find out how you can secure the affordable health care you need today!