If you recently lost health insurance coverage through an employer, purchasing a short-term medical insurance plan will make you ineligible for any guaranteed issue, individual health insurance plans commonly referred to as HIPAA plans. Oftentimes, HIPAA plans are quite expensive but may be appropriate for those whose pre-existing conditions make it difficult to obtain health insurance in the private market. Therefore, if you wish to maintain your eligibility for HIPAA plans, you should not purchase a short-term health insurance plan. Please consult your benefits advisor to discuss your rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other rights under state law.