Pre-existing conditions, the Nevada Health Exchange and more

I get calls constantly from people who have been misguided by the media. They think that the new healthcare reform has magicall changed health insurance and now that Obama won his second term that 'ObamaCare' is in full swing. Guess what?- it isn't. We have only seen the small stuff hit so far.

Pre-existing conditions: Thos of you who are un-insurable or have been declined coverage, there is still some hope right now, but not all doors are open just yet. You have the federal PCIP or high-risk pool available. If you've been without insurance for 6 months and been declined, you can get onto that program offered at PCIP.gov. Those who are still insured but want to save some money, can go ahead and apply for coverage with the carriers. All of the companies have the right to decline and rate you, but there have been some major changes. Humana, Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Assurant have all started to lax their underwriting. If they previously declined you or maybe rated you high, you may now be eligible under their new guidelines.
Although it may start sooner, January 1, 2014 all carriers will be required to accept pre-existing conditions. My guess is that we will start to see dramatic rate increases by the carriers as that time approaches as they will be gearing up for more risk than ever. Come January, every citizen will be taxed if they don't have health insurance. Aetna has already announced that they will no longer give 12 month rate guarantees for new clients.
The Nevada State exchange is suppose to be the place everyone can shop for insurance and be able to keep rates within an affordable budget. Rates will be subsidized according to income. Although different income levels vary the percentage, for most they won't be paying more than 9.5% of their earnings towards the premiums. We only have one problem- No carrier in Nevada has decided they want to even participate in the exchange.
So if you are on the fence about health insurance, get off now and think about getting a plan while underwriting is loose and rates are fairly reasonable now. Best case- you pay less come January then everyone else or worse case you had health insurance this whole year and got to change it out Jan 1.