As an Exchange Visitor in the U.S. you must carry health insurance that meets or exceeds the minimum criteria for yourself and your J-2 dependents for the full duration of your time in the U.S. in J visa status. Government regulations state that if you willfully fail to carry the minimum coverage of health insurance for yourself and your dependents, your J-1 sponsor must terminate your program and report the termination to the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP), the government office located in the Department of State that controls this visa program.
The specific text regarding the insurance requirement information appears in the Exchange Visitor Regulations, Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations, on the Department of State website.
You may purchase the required insurance policy after you arrive in the U.S., but if you choose to do so, you should purchase traveler's insurance to guarantee coverage until your policy in the U.S. takes effect. Be sure your traveler's insurance covers accidents, illness while you travel, and is not just financial insurance against cancellation of your trip.
Keep in mind that after you have purchased a plan, it is your responsibility to contact your insurance company for questions regarding policy coverage, claims processing and assistance.
Other Helpful Information
J Exchange Visitor Health Insurance Plan Eligibility
Why You Need Health Insurance
Required Insurance Specifications Under the J-1 Visa Regulations
ISOS-Repatriation and Medical Evacuation insurance (Exchange Visitors (scholars) should call 1-800-523-8662 and request an Individual Membership. As for the Visitor USA policy which meets the Department of State Requirements.)