ACA Plans vs. Short Term Plans
It’s hard to compare ACA and Short Term because comparing the two implies one is a substitute for the other, when they’re really not. That’s because you’re not going to get the coverage of an ACA plan with a Short Term plan, but you will likely get a cheaper price.
Simply put, ACA health plans are designed to be minimum essential coverage, covering 10 essential health benefits outlined in the Affordable Care Act. These plans are what insurance companies call major medical or comprehensive coverage. As the name implies, Short Term health plans are designed to be temporary. Short Term insurance doesn’t cover “minimum essential coverage” as defined by the ACA. That certainly doesn’t mean it’s not worth getting though. It all depends on your needs and your situation.
| ACA Plans | Short Term Plans | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium Designed To Be Budget-Friendly | Generally not (though subsidies may apply) | Yes |
| Minimum Essential Coverage | Yes | No |
| Apply Or Cancel Anytime | No | Yes |
| Next-day Coverage | No | Yes |
| Covers PreExisting Conditions | Yes | No |
| Doctor & Specialist Visits | Yes | Yes |
| ER & Hospital Visits | Yes | Yes |
| Prescription Drug Coverage | Yes | Limited |
| Maternity & Prenatal Care | Yes | No |
| Mental Health & Addiction Services | Yes | No |
| Lab Services & X-rays | Yes | Yes |
| Rehabilitation Services | Yes | Not usually/Limited |
| Preventive & Wellness Care | Yes | Not usually/Limited |
| Pediatric Care | Yes | Not usually/Limited |
| Guaranteed Acceptance | Yes | No, you need to be approved |
| Wide Network | Often not | Yes |
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Short term health insurance is medically underwritten and does not cover preexisting conditions.
This policy has exclusions, limitations, reduction of benefits, terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For costs and complete details of the coverage, call or write your insurance agent or the company, whichever is applicable.