California Health Insurance: Pre-Existing Conditions the Focus of National Reform
California health insurance companies may see a drastic increase in policy holders thanks to the new health reform bill. Currently the number of residents in California with pre-existing conditions is astronomical. In fact, while many people think that people over 65 make of the largest population with pre-existing conditions this is not true. A recent report shows that over 6 million people younger than 65 have major medical conditions.
Reform for Insurance Denials
The new health reform will have a benefit for those with pre-existing conditions. According to this law California health insurance companies will no longer be able to deny coverage based on an existing condition. Coverage will become available for those with and without conditions. In addition, insurance premiums are expected to raise no more than 11% for consumers.
Timeline for California Health Insurance Reform
According to the new health reform California health insurance companies will no longer have the option to exclude adults with pre-existing conditions in 2014. However, children who suffer from a pre-existing will receive coverage in as little as six months from the date the bill was signed. This means that the 576,500 children who suffer with a medical condition may receive coverage by the end of 2010.
What is a Pre-existing Condition?
California health insurance companies define any major health condition that occurs before coverage begins as pre-existing. This condition could be cancer, heart disease, or even hay fever. Each state has different laws regarding what conditions are included. However, once these new laws take effect no one will be denied coverage due to health issues.