Years later, when the child from that story graduated high school and tried to buy their own individual insurance, they were told that everything they had ever seen a doctor for in their childhood was now a pre-existing condition and wouldn't be covered. It wasn't until the ACA was passed that they could finally afford a plan that actually covered their healthcare needs.
A (Brief) History of Health Policy in the United States - PMC can you buy individual health insurance
AI responses may include mistakes. For financial advice, consult a professional. Learn more Years later, when the child from that story
HMO) to help you decide which individual option might fit you best? For financial advice, consult a professional
One woman’s story highlights how strict the "pre-existing condition" rules used to be. When her mother discovered she was pregnant, she excitedly scheduled a doctor's visit immediately. However, the visit took place just her new insurance coverage was set to begin. Because she had "documented" the pregnancy at that early appointment, the insurance company labeled the entire pregnancy as a pre-existing condition.
Yes, you can buy individual health insurance. If you do not have coverage through an employer, you can purchase a plan directly from an insurance provider or through government-regulated platforms like the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace in the U.S..
Before the Affordable Care Act, individual insurance was a "buyer beware" market where a single line in a medical file could change your life.