What you need to know about short-term plans
While short-term plans are an affordable and limited option when you’re in between health insurance plans, it’s important to understand the following before selecting a short-term plan:
- This plan does not comply with the new benefits, rating and other rules under the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
- You are responsible for any applicable penalties since this health insurance does not qualify as Minimum Essential Coverage
- Short-term plans are non-renewable
- Short-term plans require underwriting
- Short-term plans exclude pre-existing conditions
A pre-existing condition is defined as any illness, injury or other condition for which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was received or recommended during the 12 months prior to the effective date of coverage.
Temporary coverage for life’s transitions
Short-term health insurance plans from Blue KC can bridge a gap in coverage for individuals in transition or trying to figure out their next step. It can be a good fit for you if you:
- Need temporary coverage between jobs or before other insurance begins
- Recently graduated or aged out of your parents’ plan
- Missed open enrollment and don’t qualify for special enrollment
- Want basic coverage during a brief gap in insurance
- Looking for an affordable temporary option
Six Month Short-Term Plans Coverage Options
We offer four plan levels to fit different needs and budgets. Each plan includes limited benefits to cover hospital, physician and emergency services, as well as many specialized services. Coverage under a short-term plan is limited to three months with an option for a one month renewal.
Short-term 500
Our lowest deductible plan for those wanting more coverage upfront.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term 500 |
| Deductible | $500 / $1,500 |
| Coinsurance | 20% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $2,500 / $7,500 |
| PCP network visit | Deductible then 20% |
| Generic prescriptions | Not covered |
Short-term 1000
A balanced choice with moderate deductible and out-of-pocket costs.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term 1000 |
| Deductible | $1,000 / $3,000 |
| Coinsurance | 20% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $3,000 / $9,000 |
| PCP network visit | Deductible then 20% |
| Generic prescriptions | Not covered |
Short-term 2500
Higher deductible plan with a lower monthly premium.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term 2500 |
| Deductible | $2,500 / $7,500 |
| Coinsurance | 20% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $4,500 / $13,500 |
| PCP network visit | Deductible then 20% |
| Generic prescriptions | Not covered |
Short-term 5000
Our most affordable monthly premium option with the highest deductible.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term 5000 |
| Deductible | $5,000 / $15,000 |
| Coinsurance | 20% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $7,000 / $21,000 |
| PCP network visit | Deductible then 20% |
| Generic prescriptions | Not covered |
Twelve Month Short-Term PLUS Plans Coverage Options
Short-Term PLUS plans are available for coverage up to 12 months (or until December 31, 2026, whichever is sooner).
Short-term PLUS 1000
Our lowest deductible plan for those wanting more coverage upfront.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term PLUS 1000 |
| Deductible | $1,000 / $3,000 |
| Coinsurance | 30% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $5,000 / $15,000 |
| PCP network visit | $50 |
| Generic prescriptions | $15 |
Short-term PLUS 2500
A balanced choice with moderate deductible and out-of-pocket costs.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term PLUS 2500 |
| Deductible | $2,500 / $7,500 |
| Coinsurance | 30% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $10,000 / $15,000 |
| PCP network visit | $50 |
| Generic prescriptions | $15 |
Short-term PLUS 5000
Higher deductible plan with a lower monthly premium.
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term PLUS 5000 |
| Deductible | $5,000/$15,000 |
| Coinsurance | 30% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $10,000/ $30,000 |
| PCP network visit | $100 |
| Generic prescriptions | $15 |
Short-term PLUS 10000
Our most affordable monthly premium option with the highest deductible
| In-network costs (Individual / Family) | Short-term 10000 |
| Deductible | $10,000 / $30,000 |
| Coinsurance | 50% |
| Out-of-pocket max | $20,000 / $60,000 |
| PCP network visit | $100 |
| Generic prescriptions | $15 |
Learn how short-term plans by Blue KC deliver the benefits you want, for the time you need
Explore our flexible and budget-friendly options to help bridge a gap in your coverage.
Get covered in minutes with our secure online enrollment.
Talk through your options with a Blue KC representative. Or reach out to your health insurance broker/agent.
Download your application, complete it, then drop it in the mail.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City
1400 Baltimore Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64105
Short-term plans up to 90 days (without RX)
Short-term plans up to 365 days
Have questions about getting coverage? Our award-winning support team is here to guide you every step of the way
Call us
Contact a Blue KC representative
800-215-6504
Monday – Friday,
8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CST
Or reach out to your health insurance broker/agent.