Health insurance carriers will offer coverage to those who are not U.S. citizens, but most of them require residency in the U.S. for a certain period of time. The most common requirement is 6 months of living in the U.S.
Carriers will often require proof such as rent or mortgage payments, utility payments or employment. A few carriers require one year of residency in the U.S and one carrier (Humana) requires two years. Suprisingly, there is only one carrier that does not require a minimum period of residency. This carrier recently changed the requirement to make it more favorable to non-U.S. citizens. They only require a Green card or a visa, and the applicant must plan on living in the U.S. for at least one year with no extended travel (more than 3 months).
Some carriers will rquire established care with a US physician and a recent physical. These requirements vary according to each carrier.
Of course, there are options to obtain coverage immediately for those moving to the U.S. and want coverage before they find a place to live or establish residency. International coverage can be applied for through several reputable sources. The company offering international major medical insurance that we have found to be the best is HCC Medical Insurance Services, A Lloyd’s Coverholder. Quotes can be obtained at https://www.insuranceadv.com/content.asp?c=297&ID=906
Whatever the situation, we have done the homework and know the eligibility requirements for ALL the major carriers in Georgia. I often hear people say, “I was told I would be declined by every carrier because I have X condition.” Well, the agent probably checked with a few carriers and gave up after three or four of them said “decline”. For example, almost every carrier will decline diabetics. The operative word is “almost”, since there is one carrier that will offer coverage in many instances.
It is important to work with an agent who represents all the major carriers and is familiar with underwriting guidelines. We do extensive work on the front end — called medical prescreens. If an applicant has multiple health issues, we will check with the carriers first and then advise our clients as to the best course of action. This results in a very high acceptance rate.
Greg Sanders — Peachtree Insurance Advisors — www.insuranceADV.com — 678-236-1600
