Health insurance can be a lifeline people with pre-existing conditions as it provides access essential medical care helps manage costs ongoing treatment. However finding health insurance when you have a pre-existing condition can be a daunting task as many insurers may be hesitant provide coverage charge higher premiums. In this article we will discuss health insurance people with pre-existing conditions including what it is how it works options available.
What are pre-existing conditions?
A pre-existing condition is health problem that existed before you enrolled a health insurance plan. Examples pre-existing conditions include diabetes cancer heart disease asthma among others. These conditions may require ongoing treatment such as medication regular doctor visits can result in higher medical costs.
How does health insurance work people with pre-existing conditions?
Health insurance people with pre-existing conditions works much like traditional health insurance. You pay a monthly premium in exchange coverage a range medical services including doctor visits hospitalization prescription drugs.
However people with pre-existing conditions may face additional challenges when seeking health insurance. Insurers may be hesitant provide coverage may charge higher premiums people with pre-existing conditions because they are considered higher-risk. Additionally some insurers may exclude coverage pre-existing conditions altogether meaning that any medical expenses related that condition would not be covered.
Options health insurance people with pre-existing conditions
Despite challenges there are several options available people with pre-existing conditions obtain health insurance:
Employer-sponsored health insurance:
If you are employed you may be eligible health insurance through your employer. Under Affordable Care Act (ACA) employer-sponsored health insurance plans are required cover pre-existing conditions cannot charge higher premiums based on your health status.
Individual health insurance:
If you do not have access employer-sponsored health insurance you may be able purchase an individual health insurance plan. Under ACA insurers are required cover pre-existing conditions cannot charge higher premiums based on your health status.
Medicaid:
Medicaid is a government-run health insurance program low-income individuals families. Depending on your income state residence you may be eligible Medicaid coverage regardless your pre-existing condition.
Medicare:
Medicare is a government-run health insurance program people over age 65 as well as people with certain disabilities. Medicare is required cover pre-existing conditions cannot charge higher premiums based on your health status.
COBRA:
If you lose your job your employer-sponsored health insurance coverage you may be eligible COBRA coverage which allows you continue your employer-sponsored health insurance a limited period.
Conclusion
Health insurance is a critical component managing treating pre-existing conditions but it can be challenging obtain coverage. It’s important understand your options work with an experienced insurance broker navigator find a plan that meets your needs budget. Don’t give up on finding coverage as there are options available help you access care you need.
