Short-Term Health Insurance in Arizona — Compare Options & Get Quotes
Need coverage quickly? Short-term medical (STM) can bridge a gap when you’re between jobs, outside Open Enrollment, or waiting for employer benefits. STM isn’t the same as ACA major medical—benefits, exclusions, and term limits differ—so we always compare it against ACA Marketplace plans (often with subsidies) to make sure you’re not paying more for less protection.
How short-term health insurance works in Arizona
Fast starts & limited terms
Many STM plans can start as soon as the next day. Under current federal guidance, new STM policies have a short initial term and a limited total duration (including any renewal/extension). Arizona follows these basics for newly issued STM—we’ll confirm your ZIP-specific options at quote time.
Key differences from ACA plans
- Not ACA-compliant: Benefits can be limited; some services may be excluded.
- Pre-existing conditions: Typically excluded; underwriting questions may apply.
- No ACA subsidies: Premium tax credits and CSRs apply only to Marketplace plans.
Who short-term may fit (and when to choose ACA)
Often a fit
- Healthy applicants between jobs or waiting for group coverage to begin.
- New Arizona residents or recent grads needing a quick bridge.
- Missed Open Enrollment and don’t have a qualifying life event.
Consider ACA instead
- You take brand/specialty medications or expect ongoing specialist care.
- You want comprehensive benefits (maternity, mental health, preventive at $0 in-network).
- Your income likely qualifies for subsidies—ACA can be cheaper after credits.
Short-term vs. ACA Marketplace — side-by-side
| Feature | Short-Term Medical (STM) | ACA Marketplace Plan | Arizona tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enrollment timing | Anytime; quick starts | Open Enrollment or SEP | Use STM only when you can’t start ACA right away |
| Pre-existing conditions | Typically excluded; underwriting | Covered; no medical underwriting | Ongoing care → start with ACA |
| Benefits scope | Limited; not all EHBs | Includes essential health benefits | Families & chronic needs → ACA |
| Financial help | Not subsidy-eligible | Tax credits & CSR (income-based) | Check savings via HealthSherpa |
| Duration | Short; confirm current limits | Full year; renewable | Plan your timeline to avoid gaps |
| Monthly premium | Often lower sticker price | May be higher before subsidies | After credits, ACA can be cheaper net |
What affects short-term pricing in Arizona
Profile & design
- Age, ZIP/county (Maricopa, Pima, rural), tobacco status.
- Deductible, coinsurance, benefit maximum, and riders (office-visit, Rx, accident).
Network & timing
- PPO reach vs narrower networks; telehealth benefits.
- Start date (often next-day) and any waiting periods.
Quote & enroll process
- Clarify your dates, doctors, prescriptions, and budget.
- Compare STM options vs ACA plans (we’ll check subsidy eligibility).
- Choose with clear disclosures (exclusions, caps, network rules).
- Enroll online; we confirm your effective date & ID cards.
- Support with renewals or pivoting to ACA when it’s time.
Frequently asked questions
How fast can short-term coverage start?
Often as soon as the next day after approval. We’ll outline exact effective-date options and any waiting periods before you enroll.
Are prescriptions covered on STM plans?
Some STM designs include limited Rx or discount programs; others restrict brand/specialty drugs. We’ll check your medication list and recommend the most economical path—or ACA if better.
Will STM cover pre-existing conditions?
Generally no. Most short-term policies exclude pre-existing conditions and may apply look-back periods. If you need ongoing care, ACA plans usually fit best.
Can I keep my doctor?
It depends on the plan’s network. We verify your preferred providers and facilities before you bind coverage.
When should I move from STM to ACA?
At Open Enrollment or if a Special Enrollment Period opens (move, loss of coverage, household change). We’ll help you time the transition to avoid gaps or overlaps.
Disclosure
Compliance: Short-term health insurance is not minimum essential coverage under the ACA and may exclude pre-existing conditions and essential benefits. Availability, benefits, networks, term limits, and prices vary by carrier and Arizona ZIP code and can change. Review official plan documents for exact terms and costs.
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Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: info@blakeinsurancegroup.com
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent