These premiums actually look pretty good. I was under the impression that non-employer based plans were much more expensive... Is there a catch? Do they have to cover pre-existing conditions in CA already? Are there coverage caps? Thanks for putting together the article, very helpful!
Starting in 2014 - it will be illegal to have lifetime caps on health insurance. Also limits on "essential services" will be illegal. They are loosely defined as:
- Emergency services
- Prescription drugs
- Mental and behavioral health, and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive, wellness, and chronic disease management
- Pediatric services
- Maternity and newborn care
Excluding based on pre-existing conditions will also be illegal starting in 2014. Until then - California has a health plan for pre-existing conditions here: http://www.pcip.ca.gov/Home/default.aspx and you can find information for all state here: https://www.pcip.gov/
I imagine those premiums are for Tier 1 customers (in good health without pre-existing conditions). Insurance companies also offer plans at higher cost for various pre-existing conditions. Once you apply they evaluate your medical information and place you in a rate tier. Blue Shield for example has tier 1 through tier 6 (plus a special tier 7 for minors).
If you meet some other qualifications (in particular have had coverage for 18 months and have used up any COBRA options you have), you are entitled to a guaranteed issue plan in CA if you are declined for an underwritten plan:
