The new healthcare law’s Preexisting Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) program is providing insurance to thousands of people with high-risk preexisting conditions. The US Department of Health and Human Services recently reported how PCIP is helping to fill a void in the insurance market.
In 2014, under the Affordable Care Act, insurers will be prohibited from denying coverage to individuals with a preexisting condition. Until that time, enrollees will be provided with affordable insurance coverage by the PCIP program. This includes those with preexisting conditions who are denied insurance coverage and are ineligible for Medicare or Medicaid coverage. In many cases, PCIP participants have been diagnosed with and need treatment for significant health conditions, such as cancer.
From November 2010 to November 2011, enrollment in PCIP increased nearly 400%. Through the coming month, PCIP enrollment is predicted to reach 50,000 enrollees.
Comprehensive health coverage is provided by PCIP, including primary and specialty care, hospital care, prescription drugs, home health and hospice care, skilled nursing care, preventive health, and maternity care.
The program is:
- Available in 50 states and the District of Columbia
- Open to US citizens and people who reside in the US legally (regardless of income)
- Available to individuals who have been without insurance coverage for at least 6 months and have a preexisting condition, or who have been denied health insurance coverage because of a health condition
Premium rates for program enrollees are comparable to those for healthy people in the individual insurance market. By law, premiums may differ only on the basis of age, geographic area, and tobacco use.
Source: HHS.gov.