How to Find Health Insurance When You Have a Pre-Existing Condition

Finding health insurance when you have a pre-existing condition like Diabetes or Heart Disease can be a challenge but it doesn't have to be impossible. There are options. Work through the steps in this article and you will be on your way to finding health insurance, despite you pre-existing condition.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. DON'T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS
   
   If you're in need of individual health insurance don't assume you wont' be covered due to your pre-existing condition. Seek out a broker or go through one of the internet options and fill out an application completely and honestly to see where you stand. This should not cost you any money and you may be surprised at what you find.

2. GO TO WORK FOR A LARGE EMPLOYER
   
   Employer provided health insurance is usually offered without having to go through underwriting if the employer is large enough. Being offered health insurance without underwriting means that your pre-existing conditions won't become a factor. Confirm that this is the case before accepting employment or canceling any other health insurance you might have.

3. LOOK INTO STATE PLANS
   
   Many states have a pool for people who are unable to become insured on their own. While these plans are often expensive, and may not be ideal, that are sometimes the best available option.
   
   You may have to prove that you have been denied coverage elsewhere so going through the process outlined in step one is important.

Tips & Warnings

• If one member of your family is holding other members back because of his or her pre-existing condition, you may want to consider separating that family member's insurance from the rest.
• Thoroughly check out all aspects of any health insurance plan you are considering. Make sure you understand the costs as well as the coverages.
• Never lie or withhold information on an insurance application in order to obtain coverage. This could result in your coverage being canceled at a time when you need it most.

[drjmedulla]

on 10/30/2009 Great tips. It pretty much in alignment with what I understand to be true. But, what would do if they are self employed, or work for a small company?

[imme911]

on 8/7/2009 Thanks for these tips. Not being insured is a big problem for many of us.