Health Plans For Those With Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, then chances are you’ve had trouble in the past with trying to get a health policy – let alone one suitable to your needs. However, under new health laws, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one addresses your pre-existing condition.

The federal government has put $5 billion into this program, and you can get about $320 to $570 on average. However, state PCIP programs can give up to $890, like in Connecticut.

Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plans (PCIPs)

27 states have their own version of a pre-existing condition insurance plan. The others push HHS plans in their own areas. These plans generally have lower premiums.

Federal PCIPs have three options: standard coverage; extended, where the deductibles are lower, but you’ll get higher premiums; and an option where you have a savings account married to a high deductible. In the case of state-offered plans, you may also get more than one option.

If you wish to find out more about PCIPs in your state, check on our links at the end of this article, or call 866-717-5826.

Qualifications

- You must be uninsured for at least 6 months to be eligible. If you’ve enrolled in a high-risk state pool or private insurance, then you do not qualify. The same goes for the unemployed on COBRA.

- For a federal PCIP, you need proof that you were denied coverage for your pre-existing condition, or that even if your coverage was approved, they did not cover the pre-existing condition’s costs. Do make sure that you did not buy into the policies mentioned. If you’re uninsured, you need at least a denial letter from a carrier.

- State PCIPs have fewer requirements. In general, you might only need a doctor’s letter or confirmation from a healthcare provider that you do have a pre-existing condition recognized under the state PCIP.

- Always keep all documents that show denials of coverage or exceptions. You will be able to use this in some cases.

LINKS

* PCIP Website: http://www.pcip.gov
* Interactive PCIP Map: http://www.pcip.gov/StatePlans.html