×

Alert: Beware of dangerous, limited insurance plans

SCOTT MULHAUSER

Washington, D.C.

With fewer than two weeks of the open enrollment period for health plans under the Affordable Care Act remaining, consumers nationwide are making critical health plan choices.

A rule was put into place earlier this year that expands access to short-term, limited-duration insurance (STLDI) plans. These can be substandard plans that allow insurers to deny coverage based on preexisting conditions. They also lack comprehensive, essential coverage including emergency room, maternity care and mental health treatments. There is a reason these plans are touted as a more affordable option for consumers – because they don’t actually cover much. They simply provide an illusion of sufficient coverage.

While some states have imposed limits on STLDI plans, the Congressional Budget Office estimates 2 million people will still buy them. Consumers who are seeking a lower cost insurance plan often don’t realize short-term health plans may not protect them when they get sick, leaving them with large surprise bills for uncovered care. As an organization committed to providing a voice for consumers in the health care debate, we urge consumers to read the fine print, consider their options carefully and, steer clear of these bare-bones plans.

(Scott Mulhauser is with the Consumers for Quality Care, Washington, D.C.)

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

Starting at $3.69/week.

Subscribe Today