Due to the new Health Reform Bill, insurance companies can no longer deny health insurance coverage to children under 19 who have pre-existing conditions (for example, a current or ongoing medical condition). However, there are specific enrollment periods in which children must apply for coverage. The next Washington state enrollment period begins March 15, 2011 and ends April 30, 2011. If children miss this enrollment period, the next opportunity to get coverage (except for specific situations) will be September 15, through October 31st. This also includes families who have children under 19 who are looking for an individual insurance plan. This rule does not apply to children/students over 19.
Please tell anyone you know who wants to get either child only or family individual insurance coverage to begin shopping for health insurance now.
Marsha Lewis
360-606-2616
