What Is Catastrophic Health Insurance? 
Catastrophic health insurance protects individuals and families against unanticipated sickness and illness . Often referred to as `` major medical '' coverage , it is typically much less costly than conventional comprehensive plans . Catastrophic plans can be purchased through major insurers both on and off the Federal and Sate Exchanges . To qualify for a Marketplace -LRB- Exchange -RRB- plan , you must be under the age of 30 , or show that you can not afford to purchase other Exchange plans -LRB- Platinum , Gold , Silver and Bronze policies -RRB- . Inpatient and outpatient hospital expenses are covered , along with many associated costs that often accompany a confinement . However , routine office visits , specialist visits and prescriptions may not be covered , depending on the plan and carrier . During Open Enrollment , there are no medical questions asked and pre-existing conditions will be covered with no waiting period or restrictions . LIVE answer provided by : Ed Harris - Premier Health Insurance Broker and owner of several of the nation 's leading medical websites that offer the lowest available rates . All quotes are free . 