SHORT TERM PLANS ARE CHANGING

Short Term Medical plans are changing April 1, 2017 to allow only less than 3 months coverage per Federal regulations.  In November 2016 HHS announced new regulations effective January 1, 2017, however, they delayed enforcement of these regulations until April 1, 2017.  Short Term plans effective on or after April 1 will be required to comply with this reduced term length. The good news is if you currently have a Short Term plan you will be able to complete the term length you applied for as long as the end date is no later than Dec. 31, 2017 and you continue to make your premium payments. However, if your coverage is scheduled to end on or after April 1, 2017, you may be left with limited options. For anyone not yet covered by a Short Term Medical plan, there is still time to apply. You must apply and have an effective date of no later than March 31, 2017 to be eligible for a Short Term plan with a coverage term longer than 3 months.  However, the Short Term plan must end no later than Dec. 31, 2017. Every situation is unique. It is important to understand all of your options so you can make the best decision for your health insurance needs. Since enforcement of these regulations does not take effect until April 1, there is still time to explore potential actions that could be taken now. Contact us, here at AFFINCON, or your health insurance professional to discuss options available.