Glossary · Plan types
What is a catastrophic health plan?
A catastrophic plan meets the requirements for other qualified health plans but covers no benefits other than 3 primary care visits a year before the deductible is met. Premiums are generally lower and out-of-pocket costs higher.
Definition and figures from HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
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Expand my textCatastrophic health plan: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Before the deductible | 3 primary care visits a year | HealthCare.gov glossary: Catastrophic health plan |
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What does catastrophic health plan mean in health insurance?
A catastrophic plan meets the requirements for other qualified health plans but covers no benefits other than 3 primary care visits a year before the deductible is met. Premiums are generally lower and out-of-pocket costs higher.