Insurance w/ Pre-Existing Condition

[Crimson617]

Hi all, I recently graduated from school and my medical insurance under the school's plan expires at the end of July 2012. I'm going to be a temporary resident in NYC, and I wanted to know how I can get insurance after July 2012 that will fully cover me in the case that I relapse or need treatment if I'm unemployed. I'm willing to pay a high monthly payment, but I hear that most insurers won't take me on due to a pre-existing condition. I looked at the PCIP plan, but it seems like I need to be uninsured for 6 months before signing up for it. Can anyone help me through this insurance stuff or point me in the right direction?

As a quick background, I was diagnosed with stage II TC in Feb 2009, and received the all clear in June 2009. I have not had any issues since then.

[Crimson617]

Also, I'm going to be subletting an apartment in NYC for the summer, so I'm not even sure if I'm considered a resident of the state?

[Fed]

A couple of things here. You can extend your current insurance through COBRA; that way, you will not have a gap in coverage and maintain the same benefits you had (of course, for a price). Also, insurance companies cannot refuse coverage to you due to pre-existing conditions --that is one of the pinnacles of the Affordable Care Act. Finally, will you be returning to MA after your stint in NY? If so, then the COBRA coverage may suffice for the time being, and in the event you return to MA, you can sign up for insurance through the Massachusetts Health Connector.

[Davepet]

Also, I'm going to be subletting an apartment in NYC for the summer, so I'm not even sure if I'm considered a resident of the state?

I believe that, except for military service, you are considered a resident wherever you are living/working. I could be wrong.

[Davepet]

A couple of things here. You can extend your current insurance through COBRA;

Does COBRA apply to student insurance or only employee insurance?

Also, insurance companies cannot refuse coverage to you due to pre-existing conditions --that is one of the pinnacles of the Affordable Care Act.

Has that provision kicked in yet? I thought it didn't until 2014.

[Davepet]

As a quick background, I was diagnosed with stage II TC in Feb 2009, and received the all clear in June 2009. I have not had any issues since then.

You should just give it a try. You may be far enough out that they won't care or at most increase the premium. You won't know until you try, try to get several quotes as well.

Dave

[Fed]

Does COBRA apply to student insurance or only employee insurance?

I believe it does. It was offered to me when I finished graduate school many years ago.

Has that provision kicked in yet? I thought it didn't until 2014.

You are partly correct. The provision kicked in back in 2011 for children, which is defined for patients under the age of 19. The full provision begins in force on January 1, 2014. Thanks for the heads up.

[Paul54]

Just to leave no stone unturned, do your parents have a family plan and are you under 26? If so, you would be covered under their plan.

Otherwise, I see COBRA as a good option. It was subsidized for a while, not sure now. Someone in your school should be able to help you transition.

Best of luck,
Paul