Can I use my health insurance out of state?

Asked by: Brady Kunde  |  Last update: May 17, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (57 votes)

Some plan types, like PPO or OAP plans, allow for full access to any and all participating providers in that carrier's network, regardless of which state you reside in. Other plan types, like HMO or POS plans, will cover emergency services anywhere in the country but may not cover routine care in another state.

Can you use health insurance in different states?

If you live in two different states or frequently travel within the country, you may want to sign up for a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan. A PPO plan gives you more nationwide options for providers and health care services. That means you're able to use your health insurance no matter where you are.

Can I use my health insurance anywhere in the US?

The Long Answer: Your out-of-state coverage is going to really only cover emergencies, and not much else--there's also loopholes to what's considered an Emergency. In most cases, insurance companies are required to pay for reasonable emergency medical expenses regardless of the hospital you go to.

Does my health insurance cover me out of state?

Generally, many plans will cover emergency and urgent care services even if you're out of state. So, if you're traveling and need an emergency medical treatment, you'll typically be covered, even if you're out of your plan's home network.

Will my insurance cover me in other states?

No matter where you live, your standard car insurance policy will typically cover you in all 50 states and Canada.

Out-of-State Health Insurance Coverage

40 related questions found

What insurance is accepted in all 50 states?

Medicare is run by the federal government, which is why Original Medicare coverage is the same in every state and includes nationwide access to providers.

What happens to my health insurance if I move out of state?

It's very important to report moves out of state immediately so you can enroll in a new plan without a break in coverage — and avoid paying for coverage that doesn't apply in your new state. When you move out of state, you'll need to start a new Marketplace application and enroll in a plan in your new state.

Is it illegal to have out of state insurance?

Registering a vehicle in one state while holding an insurance policy in another is not permitted for most drivers. This restriction is due to variations in traffic laws and minimum insurance coverage requirements. Attempting to insure a vehicle in a state where you don't live might be insurance fraud.

Can you have surgery in another state?

You can go to another state to have a tooth pulled, cosmetic surgery and an abortion, as long as it's legal in that state. Your are to obey the laws of the state you are in. If you live in Texas but you went to Oklahoma for whatever, you have to obey Oklahoma's laws.

Is there a nationwide health insurance?

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Nationwide Health Insurance. bcbs.com.

Can I see a doctor in another state with Medicare?

There are no network restrictions; you can see any provider that accepts Medicare.

Can I be on my parents' health insurance if I live in a different state?

Yes, you are eligible to be covered on your parent's plan up to age 26 regardless of where you live. However, your parent's health plan probably has a network of participating providers and it may be difficult for you to find in-network care when you are living in another state.

Can I use Obama Care in any state?

When you're traveling outside of California, your insurer doesn't matter: You are only eligible to have emergency and urgent medical services covered. “None of our plans have out-of-state networks,” Lopez says.

Can I use UnitedHealthcare out of state?

United Healthcare: United Healthcare has a national network so members can see in-network doctors throughout the United States. Additionally, there is an out-of-network option which allows participants to access care from non-participating providers, however, out-of-network deductibles and coinsurance apply.

What states does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover?

BCBS understands and answers the needs of local communities, while providing nationwide health care coverage for 115 million members in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Can I transfer my health insurance license to another state?

Keeping your insurance license is straightforward once you obtain it and stay active with it. Most states will let you transfer it over hassle-free as long as you fill out any paperwork they request. Get in touch with your new state's department of insurance as soon as possible for the details of this process.

Will my insurance cover out of state?

Some plan types, like PPO or OAP plans, allow for full access to any and all participating providers in that carrier's network, regardless of which state you reside in. Other plan types, like HMO or POS plans, will cover emergency services anywhere in the country but may not cover routine care in another state.

Can a doctor treat a patient in a different state?

Some states have temporary practice laws to support existing provider-patient relationships. This allows a provider to practice for a limited time in another state their patient is visiting.

Does it matter what state I live in for health insurance?

You should buy coverage in the state where you officially reside. Most states consider you a resident if you intend to make that state your permanent home.

Can my insurance be used in any state?

Does your car insurance cover you out of state? Your car insurance policy generally will cover you when you drive your car out of state.

Can I keep my insurance if I move out of state?

When you move out of state, you'll need a new car insurance policy, even if you can stay with the same insurer. Your insurance company will cancel your old policy because every state has different coverage requirements and regulations.

Is it illegal to have health insurance from another state?

As the law exists now, you can only buy health insurance in the state where you maintain your permanent address. Your insurance company may not cover you if you move states and do not report this change in address.

Can I use Aetna out of state?

Yes! As of October 1, 2022, our Aetna policy covers both travel and lodging expenses (subject to IRS guidelines) for members who live in states where access to care has been limited or outlawed and where they must travel more than 100 miles to seek care in another state.

What is the difference between a PPO and a HMO?

HMOs (health maintenance organizations) are typically cheaper than PPOs, but they tend to have smaller networks. You need to see your primary care physician before getting a referral to a specialist. PPOs (preferred provider organizations) are usually more expensive.

Can I still use Kaiser if I move to another state?

What should I do if I've moved recently or will be moving soon? Kaiser Permanente offers coverage in California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, and Washington D.C.; however, where you live will affect the type of health care coverage you receive and how much you pay each month.