Affordable Texas Health Insurance For Families and Individuals
As you know, Texas regulations govern most insurance transactions.
This is not different than the other 49 states.
However, some Texas regulations are unique, so it is important to understand these when you are shopping for a private major medical insurance plan.
Individual insurers can underwrite each applicant in Texas.
This means that insurers can rate up applicants, and they can deny them.
This will be based upon answers to the questions in the application, medical information databases, and possibly, a request for more information from a doctor.
What does this mean? This means that it is very tough (almost impossible) for a diabetic to get an individual major medical insurance policy today.
This also means that a person who is overweight (as defined by the insurer) may have to pay more than a lean person.
A person with controlled high blood pressure may get a standard rate, or they may pay more, depending upon the individual insurer.
So how is Texas different than other states? Some states, like New Jersey, make each insurer provide some plans that have to accept everybody.
Texas is usually a pretty conservative state, and they do not force insurers to accept all applicants.
So understand that your own premium will depend upon where you live, your age, health issues, and of course, the type of plan you choose.
What if you have a pre-existing condition in Texas? People do have some options.
They should understand the underwriting rules of private companies, and also have experience in helping clients find other coverage if private insurers decline an applicant.
You can use a fast and free online form to compare health insurance quotes in your local area..
These quote systems will also put you in touch with qualified local agents who are eager to compete for your business.
They know that their business also relies on good will and word-of-mouth advertising.
So even if they cannot sell you private insurance, they will work hard to help you find resources to help you.
If they cannot do this, move on to another agent!
This is not different than the other 49 states.
However, some Texas regulations are unique, so it is important to understand these when you are shopping for a private major medical insurance plan.
Individual insurers can underwrite each applicant in Texas.
This means that insurers can rate up applicants, and they can deny them.
This will be based upon answers to the questions in the application, medical information databases, and possibly, a request for more information from a doctor.
What does this mean? This means that it is very tough (almost impossible) for a diabetic to get an individual major medical insurance policy today.
This also means that a person who is overweight (as defined by the insurer) may have to pay more than a lean person.
A person with controlled high blood pressure may get a standard rate, or they may pay more, depending upon the individual insurer.
So how is Texas different than other states? Some states, like New Jersey, make each insurer provide some plans that have to accept everybody.
Texas is usually a pretty conservative state, and they do not force insurers to accept all applicants.
So understand that your own premium will depend upon where you live, your age, health issues, and of course, the type of plan you choose.
What if you have a pre-existing condition in Texas? People do have some options.
- Texas State High Risk Pool - This covers people with pre-existing conditions.
In some cases, there may be a waiting period for coverage though.
And the premiums are not cheap. - Childrens Insurance (CHIPS) - This covers the children of families with low to moderate incomes.
It is a good choice to get kids covered, especially if they have health issues.
It has also started to cover pregnant women. - Texas Medicaid - This is health insurance for people with very few assets and a low income.
- County Health Programs - Many counties have a hospital system with a sliding scale insurance program for lower income people, or those without coverage who have a pre-existing conditions.
If you have a health issue, do not qualify (or cannot afford) the high risk pool, this may be a safety net. - Federal Clinic Systems - The federal government does support some clinics.
They are usually set up in poorer areas, but provide free and reduced fee medical services.
They should understand the underwriting rules of private companies, and also have experience in helping clients find other coverage if private insurers decline an applicant.
You can use a fast and free online form to compare health insurance quotes in your local area..
These quote systems will also put you in touch with qualified local agents who are eager to compete for your business.
They know that their business also relies on good will and word-of-mouth advertising.
So even if they cannot sell you private insurance, they will work hard to help you find resources to help you.
If they cannot do this, move on to another agent!