NOT INSURABLE?
What if you are NOT insurable?
Unfortunately, there may be times when medical insurance carriers will not provide you coverage. Because of preexisting conditions, or many maintenance medications may have already found that they cannot qualify with most medical insurance carriers. Those who are insulin dependent diabetics, those with a recent history of cancer or heart problems will find it difficult to obtain individual coverage.
What are your options?
Cobra: If you have terminated working for a company that had greater than 20 employees should receive information about the opportunity to sign up for COBRA. Generally, in most cases, this coverage will be available to you for 18 months. Sometimes, there are other instances when coverage will last longer. The plan you are offered will be identical to the benefits you received while working, however, the rates WILL BE HIGHER, since the employer is not contributing to the premium cost.
Conversion plans: Once you have exhausted your rights to COBRA, call the insurance carrier and inquire about converting to an individual plan. This will be offered to you without further medical underwriting. Unfortunately, the plan design is likely to be much more limited and the rates, higher.
State high risk pools: Another option for those who have completed their Cobra benefits is to call the State of Georgia Insurance Department and inquire about being placed in the high risk pool. Again, benefits may be disappointing and the cost may be high.
Guaranteed Issue Policies: These plans offer the uninsurable an opportunity to receive a plan with few or no underwriting questions asked. Dixie Insurance Services will send you several options from which to choose. You should expect that you will pay a higher premium with restricted benefits.
AND, we guarantee that we will provide you information about ALL options available to you.
We value you, our client! |
