How Do Disabled People Get Health Insurance?

Health insurance is especially important for people with certain disabilities because their conditions require regular medical care. However, getting insurance is sometimes a challenge for people with disabilities.

Through an Employer

Some people with disabilities get health insurance through their jobs. Pre-existing conditions usually do not prevent people from getting coverage through their employers.

Through a Spouse's Employer

People with disabilities who are not employed sometimes get health insurance through a spouse's employer. Pre-existing conditions often do not prevent disabled spouses from getting insurance.

Individual Insurance Policies

People with disabilities might be able to buy individual insurance policies. But because of pre-existing conditions, they sometimes have difficulty getting coverage.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance for the elderly and for people who have been declared disabled by Social Security. People with disabilities become eligible for Medicare only after they have been disabled two years.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a state-administered program that operates in all 50 states. The eligibility criteria vary slightly from state to state, but in all states people must meet income guidelinesto qualify for Medicaid. People unable to work because of disability usually qualify.

References

• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• U.S. Department of Labor: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

Resources

• Medicare
• CNN Health: Tips for Getting Insurance When You Have a Pre-Existing Condition