Enhanced short-term insurance plans available for Idaho families in 2020

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Idaho Governor Brad Little says residents will have more affordable health insurance options as of January 1st with the availability of enhanced short-term plans.

According to the governor’s office, enhanced short-term plans are comprehensive health insurance plans with essential benefits that provide an alternative for families needing coverage. The plans are especially helpful to those who are unable to afford the more expensive Affordable Care Act plans, or those who do not qualify for a subsidy.

As open enrollment for ACA concludes, Idahoans who have been priced out of the marketplace now have additional options. Of the five plans and rates approved by the Idaho Department of Insurance, three are offered by Blue Cross of Idaho, and two are offered by SelectHealth. Other health insurance carriers are expected to follow in their footsteps.

Enhanced short-term plans differ from traditional short-term plans in that the enhanced versions are guaranteed issue, meaning a consumer may not be denied. They are also guaranteed renewable, meaning a consumer cannot be forced out for up to 36 months, and they are convertible to ACA plans.

They function similarly to ACA plans, providing more protection against preexisting condition exclusions and offering more robust benefits – areas where traditional short-term plans have fallen short. (Idaho Gov. Brad Little)

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