Some of the most common Social Security questions I receive involve how claimants can cover pre-existing conditions while they are waiting for their claim to go through. This is an incredibly important question because the claims process can take a ridiculously long time. Some people will be waiting for Texas Social Security disability benefits for a year or more, and for people awarded cash benefits, Medicare has a 24-month waiting period.
Two years is a long time to wait to get the help you need, and it isn’t unheard of for the health of many people to deteriorate during this time—some have even passed away! This won’t be as much of an issue in 2014 and beyond, when healthcare providers are finally prevented from denying people based on pre-existing conditions, but that’s cold comfort for people who need help today. Luckily, there is another option.
Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP)
As a way to bridge the gap that exists between now and 2014, the federal government created the PCIP. In 23 states and D.C., it’s a federally-administered program that covers people with pre-existing conditions; the remaining states run their own programs using federal funds. Anyone with a pre-existing condition can enroll and receive comprehensive health coverage—without being charged a higher premium.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-562-9830
Positive Changes in Federally-Administered Areas
Last year, the HHS made the program even better for those people in federally-administered areas by announcing that premiums were dropping. As a Texas Social Security disability attorney, this made me extremely happy for my clients because Texas is part of the federally-administered program. Since last year, our premiums have dropped by more than 23 percent, making it easier than ever for people to get the help they need.
Answer more of your Social Security questions during a free consultation or checking out my free Social Security disability eBook
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