Everyday I am faced with the having a conversation with someone who has a pre-existing condition. And...everyday I'm faced with the possibility of someone keeping their condition from me. I can not stress enough the importance of communicating any health condition, treatment or testing that has been completed with your health insurance agent. Having said that it is also very important to work with an agent who asks these types of questions. This is called "field underwriting". An agent knows the insurance carriers rules and the products that are available to their clients. No insurance carrier is the best fit for all individuals. Agents who know their clients pre-existing conditions can lead them down the most appropriate path towards being accepted for medical coverage.
Here are some facts to know if you have a pre-existing condition:
- Be honest with yourself and your agent
Be prepared for the following:
- To answer follow up questions
- To obtain your medical records
- To receive an exclusion or waiver of coverage - this could be for a specified period of time or for a lifetime - this can also be challenged by you formally
- To get a counter offer or "rate up" from the insurance carrier
Most importantly be prepared to be in a holding pattern while the medical underwriters evaluate your conditions and application. This could take a few weeks, so don't hesitate to begin the process.
Individual health insurance coverage is not a guaranteed issue.
Your health status will be evaluated for approval.
The good news is that each year the health insurance carriers re-evaluate their guidelines and make changes to benefit everyone involved. Please be honest and forthcoming with your agent and they will work to find the best option for you.
