Thursday, June 9, 2011

Obtaining missouri Health Insurance Coverage with Preexisting Conditions

Preexisting Conditions and Health Insurance

Preexisting condition is a term with which many insurers and insured individuals are familiar. This type of condition relates to a medical issue which was present prior to one obtaining their health insurance policy. There are often negative connotations associated with the term preexisting condition as it is something which may prevent you from obtaining health insurance coverage or make it more likely that you will pay a costly premium when coverage is obtained. However, those who are interested in obtaining health insurance coverage and do in fact have a preexisting condition will feel better in knowing that there are insurers who will provide them with coverage although there may be certain restrictions. Click for quote

Types of Preexisting Conditions

There are various forms of preexisting conditions. Some of the more common ones include pregnancy, obesity, arthritis, diabetes, depression and fibromyalgia. Each individual insurance company will compile their own list of preexisting conditions and have their own standards when it comes to providing insurance coverage for those who are stricken with these conditions. Get in touch with a licensed agent to see what your health plan options are.

Frequently health insurance companies will require new insureds to undergo a waiting period before having their preexisting conditions covered under the health insurance policy. Many insurance companies which offer individual health insurance policies require a waiting period of 12-18 months before they will pay medical bills related to preexisting conditions. The good news is that there are certain protections allotted to those with preexisting medical conditions. Under HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. you are entitled to have your preexisting medical condition treatments paid for by the new company. Under this act, those who have previously been insured under a group health insurance 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.

It is important to note that HIPAA relates to individuals who have been previously insured under a group health plan and not an individual health insurance policy. With that said, should you fall into this category, take advantage of HIPAA when switching from a group policy to another group policy. This will prevent you from having to pay for costly insurance due to a preexisting condition or having a hard time obtaining health insurance altogether.

Alternative Health Coverage Options

There are also other alternatives for those with preexisting conditions who are looking to obtain individual health insurance. To learn more about health insurance options for preexisting conditions, ask for a health plan quote today. We'll put you in touch with a friendly and professional agent who can answer your questions.

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