Are you in between jobs, outside the Open Enrollment Period (OEP), or simply needing coverage in case of a catastrophic event? Temporary health insurance (short-term medical insurance) may be an option.

Navigating the complexities of health insurance can be challenging, especially during transitional periods. Whether between jobs, outside the Open Enrollment Period, or simply seeking coverage to bridge a gap, understanding temporary health insurance is crucial. 

This guide provides essential information about temporary health insurance in Oklahoma, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

What This Guide Will Cover:

1. Definition and purpose of temporary coverage.

2. Coverage details and limitations.

3. Pros and cons of temporary health insurance.

4. Comparison between temporary coverage and traditional health plans.

5. Application process for temporary health insurance in Oklahoma.

What is Temporary Coverage (Short Term Medical)?

Temporary health insurance provides coverage for a limited period. It is designed to cover you when you are between health plans, outside the Open Enrollment Period, or need protection in case of a catastrophic event. However, to get the most out of temporary coverage in Oklahoma, it’s essential to understand how these plans work, what they cover, and their costs.

Key Features:

• Duration: 1-4 months (No longer up to 3 years as of CMS’s finalized rule, effective 9/1/24).

• Purpose: Ideal for bridging gaps in coverage, such as between jobs or waiting for other health insurance to begin.

• Flexibility: Offers customizable plans to fit various coverage needs.

What Does Temporary Health Insurance in Oklahoma Cover?

The coverage provided by temporary health insurance varies depending on the plan. These plans are not ACA-compliant, meaning they do not need to meet minimum essential coverage standards. As a result, they generally offer less extensive coverage than ACA-compliant plans.

Commonly Covered Services:

• Doctor Visits: Many plans cover visits to primary care physicians and specialists.

• Emergency Care: Coverage for emergency room visits and ambulance services.

• Hospitalization: Includes inpatient services, surgeries, and hospital stays.

• Prescription Medications: Offers some coverage for prescription drugs (sometimes can be limited).

Important Considerations:

• No coverage for Pre-existing Conditions: If you have any medical diagnosis whatsoever, no matter how big or small, it won’t be covered.

• Exclusions and Limitations: Read the policy’s exclusions and limitations section before purchasing. Standard exclusions include pre-existing conditions, maternity care, mental health services, and preventive care.

• Coverage Levels: Coverage levels can vary significantly between plans, so it’s important to compare options and choose one that meets your specific needs.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Temporary Health Insurance in Oklahoma?

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of temporary health insurance can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your situation.

Pros:

• Financial Protection: It offers protection against incurring significant medical expenses without coverage.

• No Cancellation Penalties: Flexibility to cancel without penalties.

• Duration Options: In Oklahoma, you can get a policy for anywhere from 1 to 4 months.

• Customizable Plans: Ability to tailor coverage to meet specific needs.

Cons:

• No Coverage for Pre-existing Conditions: No matter how big or small, any medical diagnosis from the past few years will not be covered.

• Possible Denial of Coverage: You may be denied coverage with a severe medical diagnosis.

• Limited Coverage: Compared to ACA health plans, coverage is more limited.

• Medical Questionnaire Required: Most plans require you to answer health-related questions during application.

Suitability:

These plans are primarily a good fit for healthy individuals and families. Suppose you have a medical diagnosis that requires ongoing treatment. In that case, it may make more sense to enroll in a traditional health plan offered through an employer or the Health Insurance Marketplace (during Open Enrollment or a qualifying Special Enrollment Period).

Temporary Coverage in Oklahoma vs. Traditional Health Plans

Temporary and traditional health insurance plans serve different purposes and offer various levels of coverage. Here’s how they compare:

Coverage Extent:

• Temporary Coverage: Limited coverage primarily focused on emergency and primary healthcare needs.

• Traditional Health Plans (ACA-compliant): Provide comprehensive coverage, including preventive care, mental health services, maternity care, and treatment for pre-existing conditions.

Cost:

• Temporary Coverage: Generally, premiums are lower due to limited coverage.

• Traditional Health Plans: Higher premiums but more extensive coverage.

Eligibility and Enrollment:

• Temporary Coverage: This can be purchased anytime, not limited to enrollment periods.

• Traditional Health Plans: Enrollment is typically limited to Open Enrollment Periods or Special Enrollment Periods triggered by qualifying life events.

Ideal Candidates:

• Temporary Coverage: This option is suitable for those needing short-term coverage, such as individuals between jobs or waiting for other insurance to start.

• Traditional Health Plans: Better for individuals requiring long-term, comprehensive coverage, especially those with ongoing health needs.

United Healthcare’s Temporary Health Insurance in Oklahoma 

United Healthcare is one of the carriers that offers temporary health insurance in Oklahoma. 

Here’s a quick overview of United Healthcare’s short-term plans:

Network

United Healthcare’s short term medical plans use the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network. This is an excellent network as it works with many Oklahoma doctors and hospitals. Here are some of the hospitals that accept this network at the time of this publishing:

• Integris

• SSM/St. Anthony

• Mercy

• Oklahoma Heart Hospital

• Ou Medical Center

• Norman Regional

• More

No referrals are required to see a specialist.

Various Coverage Benefits

Some United Healthcare short-term plans offer day-to-day copays for doctor visits, urgent care, and prescriptions. They also provide coverage for ER visits, hospital stays, and surgeries. You can also choose from the deductible options. The lower the deductible, the higher the premium, and vice versa.

If you prefer a plan with a high deductible and catastrophic coverage to pay a lower premium, they also offer that.

Coverage Length

You can get a policy anywhere from 1-4 months (No longer up to 3 years as CMS’s finalized rule, effective 9/1/24).

This is Not Traditional Health Insurance

It’s important to remember that when you’re applying for temporary health insurance in Oklahoma, you’re not applying for traditional health insurance. Short-term medical doesn’t meet the ACA requirements of Minimum Essential Coverage.

These plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions and have limited coverage compared to traditional health insurance plans with Minimum Essential Coverage.

How to Apply for Temporary Health Insurance in Oklahoma

Applying for temporary health insurance is straightforward, but following specific steps is vital to ensure you get the best plan for your needs.

Steps to Apply:

1. Get Quotes: Start by obtaining quotes from multiple insurance providers to compare options.

2. Compare Plans: Review the coverage details, exclusions, limitations, and costs of different plans.

3. Choose a Plan: Select a plan that fits your healthcare needs and budget.

4. Complete Application: Fill out the application form online or through an insurance agent. Provide personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact details.

5. Health Questionnaire: Answer any health-related questions required by the insurer.

6. Submit Application: Submit your application for review.

7. Approval and Policy Issuance: If approved, you will receive a policy detailing the terms of your coverage, including the duration, covered services, and premium costs. Carriers typically notify you of approval or rejection within 1-5 business days.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process:

• Be Honest: Provide accurate information on your application to avoid any issues with coverage later.

• Read the Fine Print: Understand the terms and conditions of your policy before purchasing.

• Ask Questions: If you have any doubts or need clarification, don’t hesitate to ask the insurance provider or an agent.

Conclusion

Temporary health insurance in Oklahoma provides individuals with short-term coverage during transitional periods. You can make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage by understanding the need for temporary health insurance, eligibility requirements, types of coverage available, benefits and limitations, and cost considerations.

When selecting a temporary health insurance plan, consider your healthcare needs, budget constraints, and coverage preferences. This guide aims to help you secure temporary health insurance that safeguards your health and well-being. You can find a plan that aligns with your healthcare goals by exploring the options, understanding the benefits and limitations, and following the application process carefully. With the right temporary health insurance plan, you can have peace of mind knowing that your health is protected.

Remember:

• Compare Quotes: Always compare multiple quotes to ensure you get the best deal.

• Assess Coverage Needs: Understand your healthcare needs and choose a plan that meets them.

• Read Policies Thoroughly: Before committing, carefully review the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limitations of any plan.

By being proactive and informed, you can confidently navigate the world of temporary health insurance and secure the coverage that best suits your needs.