Editor’s Note: This post has been updated since the original posting on Sept. 18, 2019 as newer information has become available.
If you’re reading this, chances are you have a health insurance plan either through your parents, your job, or individually. Even if you’re covered right now, you may find yourself in a position where you’re having to pick a new insurance plan. Whether you’re turning 26 and being kicked off your parents’ plan, you just accepted a new job with insurance through a different company, or you’re needing insurance on an individual basis after retiring or becoming self-employed, the time will come and you should be prepared. If you or a family member has ongoing health needs, you need to be sure that these are covered before choosing your new health insurance plan.
What Is A Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition is defined as an ailment or injury that exists before you enroll in an insurance plan. These conditions vary from acne to cancer to everything in between. Even some insurance companies still consider pregnancy a pre-existing condition. It wasn’t until the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010 that pregnant women and their unborn children had to be covered by insurance even if you become pregnant after your plan starts.
Here are just a few conditions that would need to be disclosed before your insurance plan starts in order to be covered:
- Acne
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Crohn’s Disease
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Eczema
- Glaucoma
- Hypertension
- Varicose Veins
- … and even more
The Affordable Care Act Protects You And/Or Your Family
The Affordable Care Act also prevents your insurance company from charging you more or denying you coverage because you have pre-existing conditions. This rule applies to insurance plans beginning on or after January 1, 2014. This new rule, however, does not apply to “grandfathered” insurance plans that went into effect on or before March 23, 2010.
It’s Important To Remember Your Mental Health When Choosing Your Health Insurance Plan
Mental health should be prioritized right now, especially in the midst of COVID-19. Your mental health can be covered as a pre-existing condition if you are diagnosed before you begin your new insurance plan. Even with insurance, mental health treatments can be expensive so be sure to discuss your benefits with your insurance provider. You can also read this article for more information regarding mental health and health insurance.
As the pandemic’s long-term effects on the health of affected Americans continue to be debated and researched, the implications may lead to widespread adoption of including COVID-19 on the list of pre-existing condition members very soon.
Right now, though, it appears health insurers would rather create an exclusion for it either retrospectively back to about a year or exclude it outright for someone who unknowingly was infected by it and didn’t “seek the proper medical care or treatment” during that period.
Let Me Help You Pick The Right Health Insurance Plan For You And/Or Your Loved Ones!
The Michael Suhany Health Insurance Team is here to help you receive the best coverage for your specific needs. No one should ever pay more because they have a health issue or injury. You should never need to worry about if you or a loved one will be covered if treatments are needed.
Please reach out to me and let’s discuss you and your family’s needs. I would love to help you! Get your free quote today or call me at 574-306-2028.