Georgia Health Insurance (GA)
Georgia Health Insurance (GA)
Individual Health Insurance in Georgia (GA)
The regulations are somewhat different for individual health policies. Insurers are not required to accept your application if you have a medical problem. When you have a pre-existing condition, your insurance company can attach an elimination rider to your policy. They may impose an elimination period for the condition instead. But in Georgia, there are no set time limitations for these exclusion periods, no specific definition of a pre-existing condition, and no allowance for creditable coverage. In general circumstances, most insurers limit their exclusion periods to 24 months, however. There are no limitations on costs of an individual policy or on increases at the time of renewal. However, your insurance cannot be cancelled if you get sick. If you are leaving a fully insured group health plan, you may be eligible for a conversion policy.
Group Health Insurance in Georgia (GA)
Group health insurance regulations in Georgia dictate that you cannot be refused or charged more for group coverage based on a medical problem, provided you qualify. If you get sick, insurance cannot be cancelled. Certain life changes dealing with children, marriage, family problems, or job loss may allow extra opportunities for group coverage. Newborn, adopted, and disabled children have additional coverages, provided your plan includes dependents. Insurance companies are allowed to review your medical history for the six months prior to group coverage. In the presence of a pre-existing condition, the insurer can require an exclusion period of no longer than 12 months. If you have had continuous coverage, with no lapses longer than 63 days, you may be given creditable coverage for the pre-existing condition.
Small Business Health Insurance in Georgia (GA)
Small businesses with two to 50 employees cannot be refused small group health insurance. For these small groups, there are limitations on the cost of a premium and it cannot be cancelled due to illness within the employee group.
Self-Employed Health Insurance in Georgia (GA)
Self-employed individuals are not allowed to buy group health insurance. For regulations which govern business or professional associations that have group health coverage availability, it is recommended you contact the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner before joining.
Office of the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner
2 Martin L. King, Jr. Drive
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-2056
www.inscomm.state.ga.us
Georgia Programs (GA)
Medicaid is available for low income individuals and families in Georgia. Peachcare for Kids will help with insurance for children 19 years old and younger who do not have insurance. Georgia Cancer Screening Program provides breast and cervical cancer screenings for qualified Georgia residents.
