Every option for staying covered — agency plans, Marketplace, HSAs, and gap strategies.
Most agencies offer plans. Key factors: When coverage starts (day-one vs. 30-90 day wait), premium cost ($50–$400+/month), network breadth (nationwide PPO vs. regional), gap coverage (continues between contracts or not). Ask for the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) before accepting.
Your lower W-2 income may qualify for premium subsidies. Coverage continues regardless of assignment status — no gaps. Strong option for frequent agency-changers. See tax implications.
Triple tax advantage with an HDHP — deductible contributions, tax-free growth, tax-free medical withdrawals. Especially powerful with lower W-2 income.
Short-term health insurance plans are one of the most overlooked options for travel therapists — and for many healthy travelers, they're the most affordable choice. These plans can last up to 12 months and are often renewable, making them a viable primary insurance strategy, not just gap coverage.
Why travelers love them: Monthly premiums are significantly lower than Marketplace or agency plans — often $100-$250/month for a healthy young adult. You can apply online and get coverage as fast as the next day. They're completely portable — no ties to any agency or employer. And because they're not connected to your job, switching agencies has zero effect on your coverage.
What they cover: Most short-term plans cover doctor visits, emergency care, hospitalization, and prescriptions. They work like traditional insurance with a deductible and copays. Many plans offer decent coverage for the price — especially if you're young and healthy.
Limitations to know: Short-term plans typically don't cover pre-existing conditions. They may have annual or lifetime coverage caps. They don't count as ACA-compliant coverage in states that have individual mandates. And they may not cover maternity care or mental health at the same level as ACA plans.
Best for: Healthy travelers in their 20s and early 30s without pre-existing conditions who want the cheapest coverage that still protects against catastrophic expenses. Particularly good for new grads who just aged off their parent's plan and don't want to pay Marketplace premiums.
Under 26: Stay on parent's plan — simplest option. Spouse's plan: Eliminates the variable. COBRA: Maintains your existing plan during gaps but is expensive (102% of full
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