[Pita09]

I have a question on what I’ve heard about health insurance – that new insurance won’t cover the continuation of treatment beginning before the insurance kicks in.

Situation:

I have been between jobs. My new job will cover me (and my daughter) beginning Dec. 1.

My daughter was recently (late October) diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder through panic attacks (while I had no coverage). We have been to her PC doctor, a psychiatrist, and to the pharmacy for meds.

I am concerned that the new insurance will not cover her continued treatment because the problem began while we were not insured.

Is this true? Or do I misunderstand?

If I’m right, we can start over of course … new doctors and Rx. Do you know a way to avoid all of that?

[bacilli]

It really depends on the policy. Some policies only refuse treatment for "major" pre-existing conditions (heart issues, cancer, etc.), but will cover depression, anxiety, blood pressure, etc. Your best bet is to call the insurance company and ask them some general questions. I'd broaden your questioning so as to not raise any flags in case they say they will deny treatment. You could also phrase it as if you think your daughter may have an issue but don't want to run into insurance issues, so if it's going to count as pre-existing you will wait 3 weeks to get her into the doctor. Or you could tell them you just have some questions to determine if you want to take the coverage when you're eligible.

My mom used to handle insurance for Eli Lilly, and that's the advice she gave me in a similar situation a few years ago.

[Pita09]

Bacilli, thank you for that advice. I'm going to call my soon-to-be insurance company tomorrow and see what I can find out.