Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: I can't believe this...

Talk to the Insurance Commission or whatever it's called in your state. In New Jersey, as long as you've had health insurance for the past 12 months any new insurance company has to cover all your conditions. Even if that's not the case where you live, there is usually a limit on how long a pre-existing condition can be excluded.

You should also ask your state Insurance Commission about COBRA - you may have the right to continue to use your father's insurance but pay for it yourself for 18 months. I'm not sure about that - COBRA may only apply to employer insurance - but it's worth asking about. (COBRA is a Federal law not a state one.)

I will say that New Jersey has probably the best laws as far as individuals getting their own health insurance so your state may not be as strict with insurance companies. In general, though, the Blue Cross Blue Shield companies are supposed to be more accepting so be sure to check with them if all else fails.

HTH. Please let us know how this turns out.

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[Research tells us fourteen out of any ten individuals likes chocolate. - Sandra Boynton]

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