Hi,
I am 20 weeks pregnant however I have poor insurance through my employer. I was hoping to change carriers but when I called and spoke with someone from Blue Cross (my current carrier) they told me my condition was pre-existing which means I can't change until the open enrollment through my company which is after the baby will be born. I've looked into Aim but I "make too much money" hahaha, what a joke. I was wondering if you had any suggestions as to how I can get better coverage before I have this child.

Thank you.

Jennifer

Are you refering to medical insurance? Is this plan sponsored by your employer and are you paying part of the premium with pre-tax deductions?

I'm not really sure. All I know is I pay $100 per month out of my paycheck to have group insurance through my employer. The insurance is Blue Cross of Cal PPO. I have a $40 co-pay and a $500 deductible however the split is 60/40. My employer only covers 60%. I would like to switch carriers to get better coverage since I am paying over $250 per month to see my doctor for prenatal care. Honestly, a $350 monthly plan should cover me 100% don't you think?

For $350 a month, be glad you are getting more than a band-aid. That is actually extremely inexpensive for coverage.

If it is a pre-tax plan, which it sounds like, you can not just change coverage because you want to. You needed to switch to the other plan at open enrollment. It has nothing to do with pre-existing anything but with tax laws and insurance.

Is the plan that you are looking to change to ALSO offered by your employer?

Wow, I guess I didn't realize because in the past I've had full coverage but now working for a small start up with only 15 people. My fear is not the monthly spend but when it comes down to hospital bills. I hear I can negotiate all expenses with my doctor and my insurance carrier, is that true? I was also told to ask for grievences if I can not make payment.

Like I mentioned I can not change plans until Oct (open enrollment) which will be after the baby is born. I was willing to pay more for better coverage but I can't until Oct which makes no sense at this time.

In addition I make $500 too much a month to qualify for AIM which would cover me 100% with a $800 up front payment. It's amazing how my tax dollars help people who choose not to work and do not try to make a good/comfortable life for themselves. I choose to work, own my home, I choose not to be married and this is how the health care industry supports middle class people like me? I feel as though I'm being punished for trying to be successful and being responsbile for my life. How fair is this?

Fair is subjective.

But you didn't answer my question, and it makes a difference.

My work plan will not change at all. Open enrollment is not until Oct so nothing can change internally for me at all.