Short-term health insurance plans in America offer low-cost coverage for a limited period of time, up to a maximum of 12 months. The application process for short-term health insurance is usually simpler and faster than standard health insurance plans. 

One can buy short-term health insurance in one-month increments, which makes it easy to opt out, when necessary. A thirty day guarantee period of satisfaction, and 100% refund of premium is offered by most reputed agents, if one has not filed any claims during this period.

All healthy people - unemployed, employed on part-time basis, school-going, graduating from college, or even those retiring early can opt for short-term health insurance coverage.  Specifically designed for healthy individuals and families, it provides a low-cost safety net in case of unforeseen illness or injury that might occur during the coverage period.

Generally, a short-term health insurance policy gives one the freedom to visit any doctor or specialist of one’s choice. Be aware that pre-certification is a must. Services include surgery, hospital care, emergency services, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, follow-up office visits and limited mental health, though sub-limits and special conditions apply.

The main drawback of short-term health insurance policies are that these low-cost plans are not designed to cover any pre-existing conditions - medical symptoms which one has had during the 36 month period, prior to the start of coverage. If one wishes to avail cover under HIPAA plans - plans intended for people with pre-existing medical conditions, one should not purchase short-term health insurance.

So if one is below the age of 65, not covered under an employer plan, or any other health insurance plan, and do not have any pre-existing conditions, short-term health plans offer a low-cost solution.