Young Adults and Students

What is a Catastrophic health plan?

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A “Catastrophic plan” is a qualified health plan offered through the Marketplace that covers “essential health benefits” and requires the highest level of cost sharing allowable for those benefits. For 2025, under a “catastrophic policy,” the annual deductible for covered services is $9,200 for an individual. The plan will only cover three primary care visits until the deductible is met. You will not receive financial assistance to purchase a catastrophic plan that you may otherwise be eligible for if you choose a more comprehensive Marketplace plan. Catastrophic plans may also be sold by insurers outside of the health insurance Marketplace.

While we have made every effort to provide accurate information in these FAQs, people should contact the health insurance Marketplace or Medicaid agency in their state for guidance on their specific circumstances.

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The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news, KFF is a nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California.