Pre-existing conditions

Pre-existing conditions are medical conditions that existed before the start of a policy. They may limit coverage, be excluded from coverage, or even prevent you from being approved for a policy, depending on the health insurance company.

Definition

A pre-existing condition is a health problem you had before the date that new health coverage starts. They are conditions for which a patient has received medical advice or treatment prior to enrollment in a new medical insurance plan.

Insurance Coverage

In some cases, health insurance companies can refuse to cover treatments for pre-existing conditions or charge higher rates for patients with such conditions. However, under the Affordable Care Act, health insurers are no longer allowed to deny or limit coverage, or charge more for coverage, due to a pre-existing condition.

Examples

Examples of pre-existing conditions include cancer, asthma, diabetes, and even pregnancy.

Impact on Health Insurance

The impact of pre-existing conditions on obtaining health insurance has been a significant issue in health care reform in the United States. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has provisions that prevent health insurance companies from denying coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions.

See Also

• Health Insurance
• Affordable Care Act
• Healthcare reform in the United States

Pre-existing conditions Resources
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