Insurance for Pre-Exist. Cond. . . . - Health Insurance Issues Message Board

KimRick · 07-29-2003, 02:22 PM

Hey, all. I am looking for a decent healthcare insurance policy, but the problem is that I have a pre-existing condition (I'm supposed to have surgery for it soon or else it could turn into cancer). No one will pick me up. I can't even qualify for medicaid because I have a job and medicaid with shared costs is more expensive than taking out a policy with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Any advise ?

mishka1111 · 07-31-2003, 06:14 PM

How much is your premiums now? I remember a few years ago they wanted me to join this HIPPA program, until some opening became avaliable. That was going to cost me almost $500 a month!!
Is there a way u can talk with the hospital & make arrangements. I know there is a program out there in Florida & it's not a discount program, but it does give a reduced rate to members & they do take pre-existing conditions. They have access to the same Network of doctors out there. I am not sure I can mention it here, but I can ask my friend what part of Florida the company is at.
I know the feeling about pre-existing conditions.

KimRick · 08-01-2003, 08:51 AM

MENTION IT!!! I need the info! The only insurance co. that excepts people with pre-existing conditions is Cigna and, of course, they do not offer individual plans in Florida. I had Cigna with my previous employer. Cigna is mainly a group insurance thing. It's VERY expensive and most employers carry Cigna for their employees. I've tried everything from Blue Cross Blue Shield to these little no name companies. Every one that I've spoken to tells me that IF you're even accepted with a pre-existing condition, there is a 24 month waiting period before anything "major" can be done. And they do an extensive background check with your medical history. So, if you have any info please release it.

CapsFan · 08-01-2003, 12:08 PM

Actually, most major insurances will accept pre-existing conditions provided you have a certificate of prior coverage AND have not had a lapse in coverage in the last 24 months. My husband's company is based in Florida & that's how I got around the pre-existing condition clause to get on his insurance.

I'm curious - how long has it been since you left the employer that offered Cigna? Is it too late to get COBRA through them?

Have you considered Golden Rule? I don't know the costs, but their pre-existing condition rules seem to be more lenient than others.

mishka1111 · 08-05-2003, 02:51 AM

I actually know of a program out there, but unfortunately I can't mention it because of the advertising stuff.
I will see what I can find out 4 ya!