HIV And Insurance
Will I lose my health insurance if I have HIV?
If you lose your health insurance because you're HIV-positive, that's illegal, and you have legal rights to rectify that situation; it's discrimination. However, getting health insurance when you have the knowledge that you're HIV-positive is far more difficult. So if you have a pre-existing condition, such as HIV, it may be more difficult to get health insurance, but if a health insurer drops you because you have HIV, you can take action against that health insurer.
Are there special insurance programs for people with HIV?
There are special insurance programs for people with HIV. Some of these programs cover comprehensive medical care for people with chronic conditions. A variety of healthcare programs such as COBRA, where you can continue your health insurance if you've left an employer. There are other programs, state programs where you can access private medical care that's guaranteed by the state. You can always get private health insurance, although if you're HIV positive, if you're offered the insurance it tends to be extremely expensive. As of now, the best way to access health insurance if you're HIV positive is from a group policy, which usually is offered to employees of larger companies.
Will I be able to get health insurance if I have HIV?
If you have HIV and do not have health insurance, it is difficult to get insurance. You'll find that private insurance plans for people with HIV are extremely expensive. However, most employers offer health insurance to their employees of large organizations. That's probably the best way to get health insurance when you are HIV positive.
Who can help me get or maintain insurance if I have HIV?
The best place to begin your hunt for looking for health insurance, in my opinion, are local AIDS services organizations. You can call and AIDS service organization in your local area and find out what the rules and programs and more information about health insurance. You can also access programs, not just health insurance programs, but there are special programs that may provide medicine for you. There are also outlets for healthcare where you can go and receive services on a sliding scale fee basis.
Can I get life insurance if I have HIV?
It is possible to get life insurance if you're HIV positive. Most life insurance plans are covered through large group plans offered by employers. I have life insurance, so I know it is possible to get it. However, I think caution needs to be taken when you are applying for private life insurance. Many times life insurance companies will require that you take an HIV test, as well as other tests, before they will give you life insurance. So it is possible to get life insurance. It's just important to know the requirements of the life insurance insurer.
Can I get disability insurance if I have HIV?
Sometimes employers will offer disability insurance. Disability insurance can help you navigate through a very difficult health crisis. Not just with HIV but as life throws its curve balls at you, disability insurance could be important. If you were to get sick from HIV, from serious progressive HIV, you may need to go on disability benefits. Although the HIV medicine is so good these days fewer and fewer people with HIV are going on disability benefits and more and more HIV positive people are continuing to work and have productive lives.