Most
significant congenital heart conditions require lifelong monitoring and
treatment by a cardiologist. That's why it's important to obtain and
maintain adequate healthcare coverage with a policy that lets you see
physicians with special knowledge of adults with congenital heart
disease. In most cases, as you reach adulthood you won't be able to
obtain health insurance through your parents' policy.
Generally,
the best way to get coverage is through your employer's group health
insurance. Most large companies will offer you group health plans at
reasonable rates, despite your heart condition. Seek plans that don't
have pre-existing condition clauses that may exclude coverage for your
heart disease. If your heart condition is relatively complex, be sure
your plan allows you access to a cardiologist who's experienced in
treating congenital heart disease in adults.
If group
coverage isn't possible, you may need to get insurance through a
"high-risk" pool. Unfortunately, this can be expensive.
If you're
currently covered under a group plan, such as your parents' policy or a
policy through work, and your coverage is due to end, you can pay to
continue your policy for up to 18 months under a federal law called the
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). To be eligible
for COBRA, you have 60 days from the time of termination to notify the
appropriate person at your parents' or your employer that you wish to
extend your coverage.
If
you have health insurance through your employer, be very careful when
changing jobs or policies. You may not be eligible for coverage under a
new insurance plan or policy, based on specific exclusions, or there may
be waiting periods before you can receive full benefits.
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