Health Insurance Options for People With Pre-Existing Conditions

Numerous adjustments are already being made to the new health care reforms, and with these come questions about how and when all the changes will go into effect. One of the most hotly debated topics having to do with the new laws is how pre-existing health conditions will be handled.

While many feel the ideas behind President Barack Obama’s plan are good, the number of Americans locked out of obtaining health insurance due to pre-existing conditions may not be as bad as originally indicated. Only about 8,000 people have taken advantage of health insurance options offered to high-risk individuals. Because of that low number, the government has now cut premiums for these high-risk pools and expanded some of the benefit options to entice new applicants.

The truth is, though, that many people with pre-existing health conditions may not even need to rely on the government’s program.

In fact, although there may be some restrictions in coverage, a number of insurance companies will provide health insurance to people with pre-existing conditions.

Oftentimes, applicants will be required to pay higher premiums for coverage, or they may need to undergo waiting periods – sometimes between 12 and 24 months – before having their pre-existing conditions covered. But, before assuming that the options in the health care reforms are the only choice, it is a good idea to check with a good health insurance broker regarding insurance for those with a pre-existing condition.