Arizona does not have a state-sponsored high-risk insurance plan.
Arizona residents who are over 65 or have a disability can qualify for federal Medicare coverage; those with low incomes might be able to qualify for the state-administered Medicaid program. Arizonans are also eligible to apply for the federal Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP). If they do not qualify for these government programs, they can seek private coverage through insurers doing business in the state.
Medicare and Medicaid
Medicare is a federal program that insures retired people age 65 and older and those who suffer from disabilities. Medicaid as administered by Arizona and other states provides health insurance options to individuals and families who cannot afford to pay for coverage on their own. Arizona residents may apply for Medicaid through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). To apply for Medicare, residents must contact the local office of the federal Social Security Administration (SSA).
Individual Insurance
Individual insurance plans in Arizona are provided by private insurers. State regulations require all individual insurers to provide benefits such as breast cancer screenings, care for diabetes-related conditions and care for pregnant women. Additional benefits vary by policy and insurer but typically include hospital coverage, preventative care, physicians' visits, emergency care, x-rays, laboratory work and physical exams. Insurers can deny coverage to any individual who does not meet the company's underwriting criteria. Insurance premiums are based on the same criteria.
Federal Assistance
The federal Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) provides quality and affordable health insurance coverage to Arizona residents who cannot qualify for traditional insurance and do not have access to insurance through an employer. The plan provides health benefits for prescription drugs, primary and specialty care, emergency room services and inpatient and outpatient surgery. Arizona residents have three plans to choose from. Premiums are based on plan benefits and age.
Considerations
With the exception of employer-sponsored group insurance plans, Arizona residents must qualify personally for coverage with all private health insurance programs. Each insurer has different criteria. Residents who are turned down by an insurer or do not qualify for government programs should consider a "limited" insurance plan that does not have health or income restrictions. Check with a broker or database of private insurers for information about such plans.
Tags: Arizona residents, Condition Insurance, Condition Insurance Plan, does have, federal Pre-Existing, federal Pre-Existing Condition, government programs
