Health Insurance Companies Clash with DoctorsFebruary 2008
In an apparent effort to hold down costs, the
health insurance company Blue Cross wants doctors in California to report health conditions that it could use to cancel new patients' medical insurance coverage.
The attempt to discredit consumers occurred when physicians received copies of patient health insurance applications, with a letter advising them that Blue Cross "has a right to drop members who fail to disclose material medical history." The insinuation is that doctors should report to the insurance agency any pre-existing conditions not mentioned in the medical insurance applications.
Of course, expecting doctors to break their rules of doctor/patient confidentiality is illegal. This is why company representatives were quick to add that "doctors are not required, but rather can volunteer, patients' information to Blue Cross."
Thankfully, doctors are more invested in the health of their patients than in the costs incurred by a health insurance giant like Blue Cross. And the real issue seems to be that Blue Cross is fighting a $1 million fine imposed upon them for the practice of failing to check on applicants, and then rescinding coverage after individuals incur major medical costs.
Facts on:
Medical Insurance Companies
Did you know...
There are over 47 million uninsured Americans, and millions more who are underinsured and don't know it?
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This is yet another reason why health care needs major reform. The "pre-existing condition" conundrum has been haunting consumers who need
medical insurance desperately, but can't get it because no agency wants to cover their costs. Some legislators want to make it illegal for health insurance agencies to discriminate against those with a pre-existing condition, but so far no such law has been put in place.
For the time being, consumers should continue shopping around to get their coverage today, so that they can be protected in the event of a future injury or illness. This, combined with an active, healthy lifestyle, is the best way to avoid medical debt, minimize costs, and enjoy good health.
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