Health Insurance Articles

Employer Provided Health Insurance Coverage For Children With Type 2 Diabetes

2010-02-17

Diabetes affects millions of Americans and each year more and more people are diagnosed with this disease. Because this disease is so prevalent in America, state and government agencies have offset health care costs with additional funding to health insurance companies to help cover the costs related to this chronic condition.

Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not recognize or produce insulin. When the body does not receive or recognize insulin, it can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney disease, amputations and even death. Though it is a chronic condition, it is treatable and if cared for properly, a person can have a very long productive quality of life. There are many factors put into place to treat and maintain good health while having diabetes. Proper use of equipment and supplies, counseling and nutritional classes are provided to help people keep as healthy as possible. Virtually all insurance companies will provide health insurance coverage for diabetes. However, some health insurance policy terms may have a waiting period of up to 18 months before covering it up to 100 percent.

Employee-covered benefits for children with type 2 diabetes are the best options in coverage if at all possible. Usually, there is no waiting period for new employees who hire on and are eligible for benefits as well as for their family. If you are leaving another job, it is vital not to lapse in coverage as it is the lapse that causes the waiting periods in coverage for chronic conditions. There are only a few states that do not require mandatory coverage of diabetes. Most states do require coverage for testing, diabetic treatment and supplies. In the long run, this benefits the insurance carriers because this illness can lead to so many other complications and conditions, the insurance companies would be paying out thousands of dollars in health care to treat the problems associated with diabetes. Treating the diabetes would alleviate the potential for sky rocketing costs.

If you are unable to get employee-covered benefits, there are state and government programs that are put into place for children to provide the necessary coverage. Most are income based but there are others that will accept this pre existing condition at a monthly price and may include a deductible as well. Many other programs will offer discounts on diabetic testing and equipment to allow you to save money. It is a good idea to check with your local community first to see what programs are in place for people with diabetes. Often, hospitals are aware of and support the local programs and can get you set up with them in their social work department.