Preexisting Condition is a term used to describe a medical condition or issue that existed prior to applying for a new Health Insurance policy. Preexisting conditions may result in an increase in the cost or denial of coverage. People are often surprised to find that the condition they feel is of little consequence may in fact be deemed cause for denial by the Health Care Coverage provider or Insurance company. If you find yourself questioning you situation you should contact Licensed Certified Field Broker/Agent ( Click Here) who will be able to tell you the implication of your medical condition and advise you of your realistic options. A limited number of insurance companies actually specialize in providing coverage for higher risk consumers.

Preexisting conditions can also apply to whether a condition existing before a new policy is covered by the new policy. In certain states, a new policy can be issues that specifically eliminates coverage for certain conditions. In other states, that do not allow this, the policy may exclude the condition for a limited period of time such as a maximum of six months. In most states where such limited period exclusions are allowed, they are restricted to individuals that have not had health care coverage prior to applying for a new policy. In other words, when a person has a plan current in effect when applying for new coverage for at least six months, the Exclusion period does not apply. This is referred to as Continuity of Coverage.

How preexisting conditions are affect you coverage under a Health Care Plan varies state by state and even in some cases company by company. It is extremely important that you inquire into the details of how pre-existing conditions are to be handled before you agree to sign up for coverage. Also it is important to know the state law in the state in which you reside.

Types of Preexisting Conditions

There are various forms of preexisting conditions. Some of the more common ones include pregnancy, obesity, arthritis, diabetes, cancer, heart conditions, depression and fibromyalgia. Each insurance carrier determines the preexisting conditions and has their own standards or Underwriting Guide to use in determining coverage. It is advisable to consult with a local licensed broker/agent who is knowledgeable and can help identify plans where you are most likely to be approved Licensed Certified Field Broker/Agent ( Click Here).

Obtaining Health Insurance Coverage with Preexisting Conditions

Frequently, Health Care Coverage Providers and insurance companies will impose a waiting period before the preexisting conditions are covered. Most Individual/Family health care plans require a waiting period of 6-12 months before covering medical care expenses related to the preexisting condition. There are certain protections allotted to those with preexisting medical conditions. For example under the federal HIPAA law, those who have previously been insured under a group health care plan and are obtaining a new type of health insurance may be able to have their preexisting conditions covered so long as they meet certain criteria.  

The precise way a pre-existing condition can be used by a health care plan company to either exclude the pre-existing condition from coverage and still issue the policy or exclude for a limited period of time varies on a state by state basis. In most states companies also have some latitude in determining how they may choose to apply the state laws! It is extremely important that you inquire into the details of how pre-existing conditions are to be handled before you agree to sign up for coverage. Also it is important to know the state law in the state in which you reside.

Alternative Health Coverage Options

There are other alternatives for those with preexisting conditions who are looking to obtain individual health insurance. Most states have high risk insurance pools which provide coverage, albeit expensive coverage, to individuals with preexisting conditions. To learn more about health insurance options for preexisting conditions, contact a Licensed Certified Field Broker/Agent ( Click Here) who will answer you questions in a professional and friendly manner.