Getting insurance with sleep apnea

I am a psychotherapist and a professor who has to fend for myself in regard to insurance. I was in between insurances when I had my sleep studies and cpap purchase so I paid for all of that out of pocket. That is fine. Now the insurance company I was going to go with will not take me due to sleep apnea. I have been calling health insurance companies all around and get the same answer. I am not eligible because of sleep apnea. I went so far as to ask if I could sign a waiver exempting the insurance company from any cpap related expenses. Another no... I am very healthy otherwise and without the OSA I would be able to get health insurance. Any suggestions?????


Thanks,
Robby

Robby,

I'm not sure that this will be of any help, but this is a link to a website that discusses the protections of the Federal HIPAA law - wierd name, but basically allows for portability of coverage. In your case, I'm not sure how long you've been without insurance or if your previous insurance was with a group plan, so it may not apply. If you had group health insurance and it's been 63 days or less since loss of coverage, then you have some protections. http://63.241.27.78/hipaa/hipaa1/content/protect.pdf

If that doesn't apply - most states have a high-risk pool plan available - but unfortunately I'm sure it's expensive

You might also check with your State Department of Insurance - they may be able to advise of rights to appeal the insurance denial.

Unfortunately, even if you tell the insurance company you won't file CPAP related expenses - since untreated OSA leads to heart problems, stroke, etc. - my guess is that it's the higher risk for various other health problems that is making them balk. Perhaps providing information on the various studies showing the benefits of TREATED OSA and your compliance data, you can get someone to listen. You might check with your local Chamber of Commerce - if they have someone that has just recently gotten into the insurance business and is looking to build their business, they might be willing to talk with you in person and take a chance - of course, you want to be sure they represent a reputable company and plan!

Not much help, I'm afraid!

Best of luck to you - hang in there.
Karen