Currently 43 million people are without health insurance, a disturbing fact considering receiving healthcare for illnesses is a necessity for many people. This group includes diabetics. Several people who are diagnosed with the disease worry about searching for and obtaining health insurance; common worries include finding a company that will insure those with pre-existing conditions and pay for medical equipment , not to mention a company that comes with an affordable deductible. Use the tips below to find coverage right for you.
- Search for Large Groups
This includes HMOs such as Blue Cross Blue Shield and CHAMPUS. With larger companies there may be a greater chance of financial aid for medical issues. Companies and coverage varies. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) guide, “Health Insurance in Your State,” will assist in providing insurance company information for those diagnosed with diabetes. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) also supplies a free guide that outlines how to finance diabetes care.
Many diabetics fear that they will not be able to receive coverage due to their diabetes. Although there is a possibility of paying a higher deductible for services, the practice of medical underwriting refusing to supply coverage due to a pre-existing medical condition is becoming scarce. Searching Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute provides online information on health policy issues concerning diabetes and health insurance coverage. The institute also publishes “A Consumer Guide to Getting and Keeping Health Insurance,” a good starting point for insurance questions. For those who are employed, the US Equal Opportunity Commission can aid you in finding your legal standing concerning workplace and healthcare issues.
- Make Sure Your Supplies are Covered
In addition to asking about total annual cost as well as the cost of deductibles and co-payments, one must make sure that the plan pays for “durable medical equipment”; insulin pumps are included in this category. Another important part of your insurance checklist should include how much you will pay out of pocket for supplies such as syringes, penlets, glucose meters and insulin. Can your physician order any medication you may need, or are they restricted to certain medications? Make sure the plan corresponds with when you need your supplies. Check to see whether the plan offers refills every 30, 60 or 90 days.
- Look for Specialist Coverage
Eye and foot health are important issues for diabetics. Being a diabetic does not mean you are destined to have severe health issues in these areas but visits, such as yearly appointments with an ophthalmologist, will help maintain good health and alert you to any changes that may require further medical attention.
- Don't Refuse Benefits
If you have an insurance plan, but are searching for another, more compatible plan do not refuse insurance or COBRA benefits. Once an application is submitted for another plan, wait and make sure you are approved for coverage before making any changes in your insurance status.
- Check for Limitations in Medical Care
While investigating insurance plans, check to see if the plan limits you to certain hospitals, physicians and labs. If home health care is needed make sure the practice is included under the plan and to what extent care is covered.
