Short-Term Health Insurance & Gap Coverage

Temporary Protection for Life's In-Between Moments

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If you missed Open Enrollment or need quick coverage between jobs, short-term health insurance may help bridge the gap. These temporary health insurance plans are designed for transitional periods-offering limited coverage that starts fast and helps protect against high out-of-pocket costs from unexpected illnesses or injuries.


At The HgO Group, we help you understand what short-term medical plans do (and don't) cover-so you can make an informed decision that fits your life and budget.

What is Short-Term Health Insurance?

Fast, Flexible, Temporary Coverage

Short-term health insurance is a form of temporary medical coverage that can last from one month up to a year, depending on the plan and your state's regulations. These plans are ideal for people who:

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Need immediate coverage

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Are between jobs

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Missed the ACA Open Enrollment period

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Are waiting for Medicare or a new job-based plan to begin

Short-term plans can start as soon as the next day and typically offer lower monthly premiums than traditional health plans. But they're not designed for long-term use and don't meet ACA requirements.

What's Covered (and What's Not)

Know the Limits Before You Enroll

While short-term plans may be affordable, they come with trade-offs. Most cover emergency services and unexpected illnesses or injuries, but do not cover:

  • Pre-existing conditions
  • Preventive care (like annual checkups)
  • Maternity or mental health services
  • Prescription drug costs (in many cases)

Additionally, many plans cap total benefits or limit how much they'll pay per day or per hospital stay. These plans don't count as minimum essential coverage under the ACA and may not be renewable beyond 12 months.

When Should You Consider a Short-Term Plan?

Situations Where It Might Make Sense

Short-term health insurance is most useful when you:

  • Missed ACA Open Enrollment and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
  • Are waiting for job-based benefits to start
  • Expect to qualify for Medicare soon but aren't eligible yet
  • Are in a temporary gap between coverage due to life changes like divorce or relocation

In these cases, having basic protection is better than being uninsured-even if it's just for a few months.

Short-Term vs. ACA Plans

Temporary Help vs. Comprehensive Coverage

Feature Short-Term Plans ACA Marketplace Plans
Covers pre-existing conditions No Yes
Covers preventive care No Yes
Guaranteed acceptance No (subject to underwriting) Yes
Coverage duration 1-12 months Full year, renewable
Cost Lower monthly premiums Subsidies may reduce cost

Short-term plans can fill a gap-but they aren't a replacement for ACA-compliant insurance. If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, that may be the better route. See if you're eligible.

We'll Help You Make the Right Call

Guidance You Can Trust-No Pressure

At The HgO Group, we believe in clarity and choice. If a short-term health plan is your best option, we'll help you compare available policies, understand the fine print, and choose a plan from a trusted provider.


We'll also explore whether other solutions-like Marketplace plans or Medicare-might better fit your long-term needs. You'll never feel rushed or pressured into coverage that doesn't suit you.

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Bridge Your Coverage Gap with Confidence

You Don't Have to Go It Alone

If you need temporary health insurance, we're ready to help. We'll walk you through your options and get you covered quickly-while also helping you plan for what comes next.


Contact us today to explore short-term medical coverage or