Are you looking to buy health insurance coverage, but have pre-existing conditions? Here is some advice to know if you qualify.
Are you trying to get health insurance with a pre-existing condition?
Finding good coverage when you have a pre-existing condition can be difficult, but it is possible. Keep reading to learn some helpful tips that will show you how to get health insurance, even if you have pre-existing conditions.
What Is a Pre-Existing Condition?
First off, it’s essential to understand precisely what a pre-existing condition is. A pre-existing condition is defined as any illness or health condition you may have had before the date your new insurance plan starts. Cancer, diabetes, asthma, and even pregnancy are all considered pre-existing conditions.
Other common pre-existing conditions include:
- Acne
- Anxiety
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Depression
- COPD
- Obesity
- Cancer
- Clogged arteries
Buying Health Insurance With Pre-Existing Conditions
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) passed in March of 2010. This act prevented health insurance companies from denying coverage to those with pre-existing conditions. So now anyone can get new insurance at any time, without worry that they’ll be denied the coverage they need.
Before the ACA, insurance companies could deny you (or raise your rates) because you had a previous or chronic health condition. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. Healthcare plans that started on or before March 23, 2020, the date the ACA was enacted, are called grandfathered plans that are not subject to the rules of the ACA.
Tips For Buying Health Insurance
Shopping for health insurance isn’t always an easy process, whether you have a pre-existing condition or not. Here are a few tips that will make the process easier:
1. Consider How Much Healthcare You Use
Those with pre-existing conditions often require more medical care than those who only see a doctor for a checkup once per year. Make sure you evaluate how often you go to the doctor and choose your plan accordingly.
2. Review Multiple Plan Options
Don’t select the first plan that you get a quote for or the one that is the cheapest option. Make sure you shop around to ensure you’re getting the best health insurance at the best price possible.
3. Determine How and When You Enroll
Insurance plans have an open enrollment period, where you can sign up for healthcare coverage for the next year. Make sure you know when your period ends and how you need to sign up. For example, the federal exchange open enrollment period runs until mid-December, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
If you miss open enrollment, you still have options. Check out our blog post here to help you figure out your next steps.
4. Look at Yearly Costs
Don’t simply focus on your monthly premium payment. Take a step back and look at the plan as a whole, from the deductible to what your copay is at the doctor’s office. If you have a pre-existing condition and need to go to the doctor every month, for example, a high copay will add up quickly.
Find The Right Insurance Plan For You and Your Family
Looking for the right insurance plan for you and your family can feel overwhelming, especially if you have pre-existing conditions, see doctors often, and need good coverage.
No matter what type of plan or coverage you need, the experts at FutureWise are here to help you. Browse our product offerings here, or contact us today if you’d like to speak with someone on our team.