Short term health insurance is a type of temporary health insurance coverage that is designed to provide individuals with health insurance for a short period of time, typically up to 12 months. This type of insurance is often used as a stop-gap measure for people who are in-between jobs, waiting for their employer-sponsored health insurance to begin, or are experiencing a life event that leaves them without health insurance coverage.

Short term health insurance plans are generally less expensive than traditional health insurance plans, and they may provide more flexibility in terms of coverage options. However, they are not intended to be a long-term solution for healthcare coverage, and they may not provide the same level of comprehensive coverage as traditional health insurance plans.

Some of the benefits of short term health insurance include the ability to choose your coverage period, the flexibility to choose your healthcare providers, and the ability to customize your coverage options to fit your specific needs. Additionally, short term health insurance plans are often less expensive than traditional health insurance plans, which can be an attractive option for those who are on a tight budget.

However, it is important to note that short term health insurance plans may not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions, and they may have limitations on coverage for certain types of treatments and services. Additionally, these plans may not meet the minimum essential coverage requirements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which could result in tax penalties for those who do not have qualifying health insurance coverage.

If you are considering short term health insurance as an option, it is important to carefully review the coverage options and limitations of the plan before enrolling. It is also important to compare the cost and benefits of short term health insurance plans with traditional health insurance plans to determine which option is best for your specific needs and budget.