The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said Thursday it would expand eligibility for catastrophic health insurance plans with new hardship exemption guidance.

Applicants will be able to apply for catastrophic health coverage on Nov. 1, which will grant them access to lower monthly premiums and at least three primary care visits pre-deductible.

“Catastrophic coverage offers affordable health insurance for younger Americans and those facing hardship to have security when they need it most,” HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a Thursday statement. 

“Expanding access to catastrophic coverage is another step in making health insurance more affordable, building on the progress made since the passage of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill,” he added.

Some have criticized Congress for its spending package signed into law by the president on the Fourth of July. New requirements would force millions off Medicaid coverage and impose work requirements for others. 

Trump administration officials say the catastrophic health insurance expansion could help mitigate some losses.

Catastrophic plans are specialized plans that provide essential health benefits required under the Affordable Care Act, including full access to preventive services without cost-sharing, while maintaining lower premium structures designed for financial accessibility, according to the department’s Thursday release. 

“By expanding access to catastrophic plans, we are making sure hardworking people who face unexpected hardships can get affordable coverage that protects them from devastating medical costs,” said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz. 

“This change reflects our commitment to lowering costs, strengthening program integrity, and ensuring every American has a pathway to coverage that fits their needs without burdening taxpayers,” he added.