Changing Insurance

[kjh130]

I have medical insurance currently through my employer. I realize that with the new HIPAA regulations, if I were to change jobs and, therefore, insurance companies, I would no longer have to worry about getting hit with the "pre-existing condition" denial for my on-going medical expenses, as long as the period between coverages is limited. (I think it used to last from six months to a year before they would cover them.)

However, I'm currently getting Remicade "off-label" for my PA, for which my doctor had to fight my current insurance for several months to get covered.

Does anyone know, from personal experience or from working in the industry, what would happen in this case? Do we need to fight the battle all over with the new insurance company (possibly losing and having to go off the drug) or would the fact that I am already on the drug be enough for them to approve it?

I'm afraid it's "fight the battle all over", but I'm hoping that someone here may know or at least have some experience with this.

Thank you.

[Zwijndrecht]

I am afraid that it will be "fight the battle again" If you are like me, they have approved Enbrel for P since we started remicade...you may try that instead if you change insurance...

[chaimFL]

Expect to go in swinging! Insurance companies like fight. They put up a battle for any preexisting condition eventhough they know they have to pay. BUT, the insurance company may jst ask for proof of previous insurance and not question what the Remicade is being prescriped for. They may assume Crohn's disease and just make sure that you have not had a lapse in coverage.

[makeitgoaway]

Originally posted by Zwijndrecht
they have approved Enbrel for P since we started remicade...

When did this happen?

Steve:cool:

[chaimFL]

not approved for p yet, but will be soon.