HHS Expands Catastrophic Health Plan Access Nationwide Starting November

The Trump administration, through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is expanding access to catastrophic health insurance plans during the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment starting November 1. This expansion allows individuals who are ineligible for premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions, including those with projected incomes below 100% or above 400% of the federal poverty level as well as those over 250% not eligible for cost-sharing reductions, to qualify for a hardship exemption and purchase these lower-premium plans with higher deductibles. Catastrophic plans cover all ACA essential health benefits, including three primary care visits before the deductible, and are designed to protect consumers, especially younger adults and those facing hardships, from very high medical costs in serious illness or injury. Officials, including HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz, emphasized this policy as a fulfillment of President Trump's promise to provide affordable health choices and to reduce costs without burdening taxpayers. The move is also seen as a buffer against expected premium increases in 2026 and aims to reduce uncompensated care for hospitals by bringing more low-income patients into coverage. This policy change comes amid ongoing debates in Congress about extending enhanced ACA subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of the year.