Will my health insurance cover me out of state?

Asked by: Dr. Fleta Towne DDS  |  Last update: December 11, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (23 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 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 I use my health insurance in a different 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.

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.

Does my insurance cover me in another state?

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

Can Medical Insurance Be Used Out Of State?

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Does insurance work outside 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.

Does your insurance have to match your state?

Once your vehicle registration is completed in a new state, you should transfer your car insurance to match. Failure to update your insurance could be considered fraud. That's why it is essential to check the policies in your new state to avoid potential issues.

What happens to health insurance when you 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.

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.

Can you have insurance in a state you don't live in?

No. A car insurance policy originates in the state where you reside. Buying two auto insurance policies for the same vehicle may result in the company canceling one of them. However, you can have two policies to insure two separate vehicles garaged in different states.

Can I use my United Healthcare insurance in another 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 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.

Do I need health insurance in the US if I live abroad?

If a U.S. citizen spends at least 330 full days outside the U.S. during a given calendar year, they are exempt from maintaining ACA compliant health insurance living abroad. This means you can have health insurance while living abroad that is not PPACA compliant.

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 use my health insurance card in another country?

Does my health insurance work internationally? Many health insurance plans do not cover you when you are out of the country. For those that do, the coverage is often limited and requires you to pay at the time of service, save receipts and file for reimbursement once you get home.

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.

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.

Which health insurance is best in the USA?

Best Health Insurance Companies for 2025
  • Best Overall and Best for Self-Employed: Kaiser Permanente.
  • Best Widely Available Plans: UnitedHealthcare.
  • Best for Low Complaints and Best for Chronic Conditions: Aetna.
  • Most Affordable: Molina Healthcare.

Do I need to change insurance when I move to another state?

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 I use United Healthcare anywhere?

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

Does insurance pay out of state?

This will vary by insurance company, so it's always best to consult your agent to see what options are available. When it comes down to it, if you are taking the appropriate precautions, your insurance will be there to cover you no matter where you are driving in the United States.

Can I see a doctor in another state with my insurance?

Insurers negotiate costs state-by-state with a network located only in the state where the insurance policy is sold. Most insurers do not have a nationwide network, meaning that if you visit healthcare providers in a different state, you are using out-of-network services and are responsible for full payment.

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.

Does insurance matter by state?

That's right: Each state sets its own car insurance requirements. At a minimum, drivers need to carry the amount of coverage required by the state in which they live. Below, we've compiled an easy-to-use chart to help you find your state's minimum coverage requirements.