Everyone knows getting periodic check-ups is the best way to prevent problems down the road.
But it's never been more important to check your health insurance, especially for those who pay for an individual policy. Because health care reform is changing things for the better.
Example? As of September 23, children can't be turned down for pre-existing conditions. So now, some kids who couldn't get coverage can.
Another new rule? Free preventative care. Individual insurers are now required to cover things like cancer screenings and cholesterol tests without charging you a co-payment or deductible.
Mudit Jain, M.D. says, "I'm very happy, this is a step in the right direction and is the right thing not only from the societal perspective, but also from the individual."
But here's the thing: plans that were around before September 23rd are grandfathered - meaning they don't have to provide free preventive care. You've got to find out if yours does.
Also, lifetime limits - the max your insurer will pay over your lifetime - are gone in polices issued after September 23rd. Existing policies will renew without limits.
Another change? It's now harder for insurance companies to dump you if you get sick.
Before reform, if you made even a small mistake when you applied for a policy, your insurer could cancel your policy if you get sick years later - and refuse to pay your bills. Thanks to healthcare reform, now they have to prove you were deliberately lying.
Bottom line? Now, more than ever, you need to give your plan a check-up: otherwise you could be missing out on improvements that could save your money - even your life. Learn more now at moneytalksnews.com.
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