By responsibly managing pre-existing conditions, the health care system can develop a stronger community. Insurance companies will no longer be able to discriminate against those with pre-existing conditions. They will have to sell coverage to every person who applies, and that coverage will have to provide comprehensive benefits, including coverage for pre-existing conditions.
This equals critical protection for the millions of Americans who have pre-existing conditions today — as well as those who may develop health problems as they grow older. As a result, no American with a pre-existing condition will be denied coverage, charged a higher premium, or sold a policy that excludes coverage of essential health benefits simply because he or she has a pre-existing condition.
Starting in September 2010, job-based plans and new individual policies were prohibited from turning children down because of a pre-existing condition, including a disability. In 2014, no one can be turned down or charged a higher premium because of a health condition or disability. In the meantime, you may be able to get coverage through a state high-risk pool or through Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plans.
State High-Risk Pool Programs
Many states have high-risk pool programs that help provide access to health insurance for those who have been denied coverage.
To learn if your state has one of these programs and other options available to you, use the insurance and coverage finder.
Learn more about the Missouri Health Insurance Pool by
clicking here.
New Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan
If you have been uninsured for six months and have a pre-existing condition, you may be able to get health insurance through the Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan.
This program will provide protection for those with pre-existing conditions until 2014, when insurance companies can no longer deny coverage based on your health.
Learn more and see if this option is available to you by using the insurance and coverage finder.
Click here to visit The Kaiser Family Foundation to read "Questions about the Temporary High-Risk Pool."
SOURCE: Families USA, HealthCare.gov
