A very important consideration when purchasing a short-term health insurance plan is the fact that by doing so, you automatically become ineligible for any guaranteed issue individual health plans commonly referred to as Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Plans. Although HIPAA plans are usually very expensive, they make it possible for people with pre-existing medical conditions to obtain health insurance. If you wish to maintain your eligibility for HIPAA plans, you should not purchase a short-term plan. Please consult your benefits advisor to discuss the legal implications of HIPAA in your particular circumstances.