Catastrophic Health Insurance

Catastrophic health insurance is a low-cost plan offering high deductible coverage in exchange for lower premiums. It is a good option for people who are young and healthy and do not need frequent medical care. The plan typically covers preventative services for free and provides three primary care visits before the deductible is met. However, the catastrophic plan is not a suitable option for those who are looking for high-deductible health plans that are HSA-qualified so that they can contribute to an HSA (health savings account).

Is Catastrophic Health Insurance Worth It?

While catastrophic health insurance may be a great option for people who can afford the premiums but aren’t sure when medical bills might come up, it isn’t the right choice for everyone. Catastrophic plans offer lower premiums than traditional metal marketplace plans, but they also have the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. These plans are most commonly purchased by individuals who don’t have coverage through an employer or spouse’s workplace and want a plan that offers them financial protection against a major medical expense or who can’t afford more expensive plans.

While a catastrophic plan’s high deductible might sound intimidating, it is still better than going without any coverage at all. Even though a catastrophic plan’s deductible is so high, the Affordable Care Act requires it to cover essential health benefits like doctor visits, inpatient hospitalizations and surgeries, blood tests, maternity care, and mental health services. Additionally, the law requires all health plans to pay for certain preventive services, including health screenings, vaccinations, annual checkups, and birth control, even if you haven’t met your deductible yet.

Considering how much medical care can cost, catastrophic plans are an affordable way to help you financially prepare for a serious illness or accident that might require a hospital stay, surgery, or ongoing treatment.

Deductibles and Coinsurance Amounts

The deductibles and coinsurance amounts for catastrophic plans vary slightly between providers, so comparing different options is important before choosing a plan. Generally, the plans offer only minimal coverage until you meet your deductible, and they won’t pay for any services that don’t reach the annual deductible amount. For example, they won’t cover the cost of a knee replacement or ongoing cancer treatment until you meet your deductible.

Generally, these plans are only available to people under 30 or who qualify for a hardship exemption from the requirement that they have health insurance. However, they can be an excellent option for people who can afford the monthly premiums and who want to reduce their financial exposure to high medical costs. In addition, catastrophic health plans are often less expensive than other Qualified Health Plans (QHPs).