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By Ryan Kennelly

August 3, 2016

Topics:

  • Individual & Family Health Insurance
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What is A Multi-State (MSP) Plan?

August 3, 2016

  • Individual & Family Health Insurance

If you live in a  state that offers multi-state health plans, anyone with access to the Health Insurance Marketplace can get one. They are not only for Federal Employees.

In 2020 there are multi-state plans in 35 states offering coverage for up to 12 months with a national PPO network.

What Providers Offer Multi-state Plans?

In 2020, multi-state plans with PPO networks are offered through the National General (using the Aetna PPO network) and United Healthcare (using the Choice PPO network).

How Do Networks Work with Multi-state Plans?

Some multi-state plans offer regional or national provider networks and will reimburse as “in-network” care rendered by providers in other states, but others may not. This information should be provided in the description of the multi-state plan’s features on your state’s health insurance Marketplace.

It’s very important to understand your plans network, you should not expect care options to be consistent between states. Be aware of out-of-network coverage cost sharing and limits.

Are Multi-state Plans More Expensive?

In general a multi-state plan isn’t more expensive. However, the cheapest marketplace plans will often be local HMOs (without multi-state options. In this way, the cheapest multi-state option will often cost more than the cheapest marketplace plan. Comparing one PPO to it’s similar MSP, you may find the multi-state options to have a lower price-tag due to competition of the large network.

Specific cost sharing will very for each covered benefit depending upon your plan and network.

Can I get cost Assistance on a Multi-State Plan?

These plans work just like regular Marketplace plans and are eligible for cost assistance if you qualify.

Multi-State or PPO?

In some states PPO’s cover you out of state, in others only a multi-state plan will. Again it’s important to check networks and coverage limits of any plan you buy.

National PPO Network Plans

Large PPO Network Plan Quotes

National General is the short-term carrier that is currently offering a year-long plan with the largest national PPO network. While less-expensive than most individual plans on the market, consumers should also weigh the costs of possibly paying a tax penalty into their decision.

See the National General Insurance Guide

If you are not sure if your plan covers you out of state, submit a ticket online or contact us by email

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