AboutMichael Higgins Expertise All questions pertaining to health insurance, whether group, individual/family, student, child-only, COBRA, HIPAA, Portability, dental. No expert knowledge in areas such as life insurance, disability, workman's compensation, auto, etc.
Experience 27 years as owner of health insurance agency, primarily dealing with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.
Education/Credentials College, Business Administration.
Expert: Michael Higgins Date: 6/29/2008 Subject: Pre exisiting conditions
Question I'm thinking of changing jobs and I just found out I have cancer. I'm 25. I've been told that under open enrollment for group medical coverage there is no waiting period and pre existing conditions are covered. Is this true that I would be covered from day one and for my condition. Please help. Thanks
Answer Hi Sharon:
It is very likely that you will be covered from day one, including the pre-existing condition. Each state has varying laws, but my guess is that you will be covered.
Without divulging your pre-existing condition, (because you don't have to,) ask the human resources person at the new job if all pre-existing conditions will be covered immediately. It will also be important to not have a break in coverage from one job to the next. Purchase COBRA from your current employer for the time between when your old insurance ends and the new plan begins, if needed.
