How does health care reform affect coverage of pre-existing conditions?

If you have a pre-existing condition, you might have been denied health care coverage in the past. But in 2014, parts of the new health care reform law go into effect regarding pre-existing conditions. No health insurance company will be allowed to deny you coverage or charge you more because of your pre-existing condition.

You might be thinking, “Great, but it’s not 2014 yet,” and we don’t blame you. In the meantime, you do have some options to get the coverage you need.

The new Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan program (PCIP)

This plan was created for adults with pre-existing medical conditions who have been uninsured for at least the past six months. The PCIP will end Jan. 1, 2014 when the state insurance exchanges begin, and people in the PCIP will then transition to the state exchange for their insurance coverage.

If you’re a Michigan resident, you can apply for coverage under this state plan if:

• You’re a U.S. citizen or residing in the United States legally.
• You’ve been uninsured for at least the last six months.
• You have a pre-existing condition or have been denied coverage because of your health condition.

The plan will cover a broad range of health benefits, including primary and specialty care, hospital care, and prescription drugs.  All covered benefits are available for you, even if it’s to treat a pre-existing condition. Here’s the rundown of the plan details:

• Premiums are $104 to $515 per month
• Deductible is $1,000 for Plan 1, $2,500 for Plan 2, $3,500 for Plan 3
• Out-of-pocket limit: $5,950

Eligible Michigan residents can apply today for coverage in the Michigan PCIP.  If you’d like more information on the PCIP program in Michigan, you can visit: www.hipmichigan.org or call toll-free: 1-877-459-3113.

But what if you don’t qualify or you want to look into another health insurance option? If you live in Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has a number of great plans available. 

You can see our MyBlue® plans for individuals and families here or call 1-877-469-2583 to get a quote on a plan. You don’t have to wait until 2014 to get the coverage you need.