Supplemental Accident Expense

What Does Supplemental Accident Expense Mean?

Supplemental accident expense insurance is a type of accident coverage that can be added to an existing health plan. It helps cover costs arising from an accident or illness that are not typically included in a major medical plan. This coverage often includes out-of-pocket medical expenses, such as deductibles and copays, as well as other costs not addressed by standard medical or insurance plans. If you want a refresher on how those core cost-sharing terms work together on a health plan, see our breakdown of premiums, deductibles, and copays.

Insuranceopedia Explains Supplemental Accident Expense

This insurance can be particularly beneficial for individuals with an existing health plan that has a high deductible, limited access to healthcare providers, or those looking to reduce their out-of-pocket medical expenses. Some insurance companies may offer this policy without requiring health assessments or proof of insurability. With supplemental accident expense insurance, the insured can choose any healthcare facility and receive benefits directly from the insurer, independent of any other benefits provided by their primary health insurance policy.

Before adding this kind of coverage, it’s worth looking at whether you can reduce what you pay on your base plan first. Our guide to ways to lower your health insurance costs walks through options like adjusting your deductible or shopping around for a new health insurance policy, both of which can change whether a supplemental accident plan makes sense for you.