legal for HMO to restrict where live? - Aging Issues Message Board

BarbaraH · 05-23-2003, 03:41 PM

I'm new here, but want to ask if anyone knows the answer to this situation. I have a friend whose in-laws are in ill health and live in southern CA. They have been told their HMO will cancel if they move to Idaho to be with family. The HMO doesn't serve Idaho. Can this be legal? Wouldn't some elder-rights law protect these seniors? Answers or leads to where this information can be found will be appreciated! Peace - Barbara

plymouth · 05-23-2003, 04:45 PM

The HMO might not be licensed in Idaho.

It may not be legal for them to offer service in Idaho.

HMO's are like insurance companies, they have to be licensed by the state.

BarbaraH · 05-23-2003, 05:50 PM

Thanks for your reply. I can understand that, but shouldn't there be a procedure in place so their policy could be transferred to a company that does serve Idaho - and they not be penalized because they are now in ill health? I'm still wondering because this seems unjust as it stands.

Peace - Barbara

plymouth · 05-23-2003, 06:30 PM

Perhaps you could contact the insurance commissioner's office in your state? or the consumer affairs office in the attorney general's office?