Will my health insurance be accepted in another state?

Asked by: Ms. Kyra Sauer DVM  |  Last update: June 22, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (9 votes)

Unlike short-term travel, when moving states, health insurance may need to be updated. If you have employer-based health coverage, find out if your plan is covered in your new state of residence. If you're moving to a state that's outside of your plan's service area, you may need to find a new health plan.

Can I use my health insurance in another state?

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.

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.

Is my health insurance good in any state?

If you move across state lines, your health insurance coverage may or may not move with you. There are things you can do to make sure you keep your coverage or pick up new coverage to avoid gaps. Learn more about your health care options when you move to a new state or split your time between two or more states.

What health 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.

Can Medical Insurance Be Used Out Of State?

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Can you have Medicaid in one state and live in another?

Can Medicaid Benefits be Transferred from State-to-State? Formally, one cannot transfer Medicaid from state-to-state. However, with careful planning one can gain eligibility in their new state without a lapse in benefits. The US federal government establishes parameters for the Medicaid program.

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 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.

Does it matter what state your insurance is in?

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.

Which health insurance company denies the most claims?

According to the analysis, AvMed and UnitedHealthcare tied for the highest denial rate, with both companies denying about a third of in-network claims for plans sold on the Marketplace in 2023, respectively.

Does my insurance work in any state?

not every plan is available in every state, so check with your insurance company if its coverage extends to the place you're visiting. You may still be covered even if it doesn't contract with providers in that state, but your costs may be different.

Can you see a doctor in a different state?

Yes, with one caveat: If you have an HMO or a policy with a strict provider network, you might need a referral. Your insurance might have a preferred provider network. Some state Medicaid programs limit coverage to that state. Having said that, I have traveled out of state for medical care a few times without problems.

Do I have to change my insurance if I move states?

Moving to another state? If you're moving between states, keep in mind that insurance coverage varies across states. For example, in California, due to the high risk of earthquakes, you may want to take special precautions to make sure your home is safe and secure in case an earthquake occurs.

Can blue cross be used in any state?

Every Blue Cross Blue Shield plan participates in the BlueCard program that allows you to use your plan benefits to access care anywhere inside the United States. Depending on the type of plan you have, you may only be covered in emergency situations. This is the case if you have an HMO network plan, for example.

Is UnitedHealthcare accepted everywhere?

With UnitedHealthcare Options PPO health plans, you can use any doctor, clinic, hospital or health care facility in the national network.

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 health insurance cover me in another 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.

Do states accept out of state insurance?

If you are on vacation, for example, or are passing through another state on a road trip, you won't need to get a separate car insurance policy. Rather, something known as a “broadening clause” goes into effect, and your car insurance policy will now adhere to the laws of the state you're currently in.

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.

Can you get health insurance in a state you don't live in?

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.

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.

How to switch state insurance to another state?

Locate your new state to apply through its website. After you finish your application, you'll see plans and prices available to you. After you confirm the coverage in your new state has started, you'll need to end your current coverage in your former state. Learn how to cancel your old plan.

Does my health insurance cover me while traveling?

Generally, most domestic health insurance policies are not accepted abroad, so there is a benefit to purchasing travel medical insurance as a supplement to your health insurance coverage. The travel medical coverage is only valid while you're traveling.

How many states does UnitedHealthcare cover?

UnitedHealthcare announced its 2024 Individual and Family ACA Marketplace Plans, which feature affordable coverage, convenient access to care and a wide range of benefits in 26 states. Consumers can enroll by visiting uhc.com/exchange during the open enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1, 2023, through Jan.

How to see a doctor when out of state?

Where do I get care while I'm traveling?
  1. Advice hotlines. Many insurance providers include access to a 24-hour hotline that you can call for medical advice. ...
  2. Virtual care. ...
  3. Walk-in clinics at drugstores. ...
  4. Urgent care centers.