While short-term plans are most popular among young people, who are least likely to face major medical issues, a quarter of consumers between 45-64 opted for the cheaper, less comprehensive plans. (Photo: Shutterstock)
For better or worse, there appears to be a substantial market for short-term health plans that don't offer the services typically provided by major medical insurance.
The Obama administration sought to discourage consumers from opting for short-term plans, which generally do not cover preventative care and an array of other services deemed "essential" by the Affordable Care Act, such as maternity care or mental health treatment. A rule put in place shortly after the ACA only allowed such plans to offer a maximum of 90 days of coverage.
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