Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Change Health Insurance When You Have Health Problems

Health insurance is a must for people with serious health conditions.


When you have health problems or pre-existing conditions it can be difficult to switch health insurance, because you may have a hard time qualifying for a new plan. It is important to make sure your insurance does not lapse even for a day to avoid having your new insurance institute a waiting period for pre-existing conditions. It is important to look at several options before choosing your insurance.


Instructions


1. Check to see if you qualify for new insurance through your employer or your spouse's employer. This insurance is the best if you have health conditions because it does not require a health check to qualify.


2. Contact a local health insurance agent or go to healthcare.gov to find independent insurance options available in your state. You may qualify for a high-risk pool if you have specific health conditions.


3. Stay on your COBRA coverage, if you qualify, until your new insurance coverage starts. If you are looking for new insurance because you lost your job or changed employers, staying on COBRA, although expensive, may be the best option to provide continuous health insurance coverage for yourself and your family while you look for a new job.


4. Verify that your health care providers accept any plans you're considering. If they do not, you will need to determine if you want to choose a different insurance plan or switch providers once you have new insurance.


5. Apply for the new health insurance and wait until the plan's starting date to cancel your other policy. Your new health insurance usually will not start for at least 30 days from the date you apply. Wait until you receive a letter confirming coverage will begin on Jan. 1, for example, before you cancel your insurance effective Jan. 1.

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