Web Site: http://www,pcip.gov

Phone Number: 866-717-5826

Description:

The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP), which is administered by either your state or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides a health coverage option if you have been without health coverage for at least six months, you have a pre-existing condition or have been denied health coverage because of your pre-existing condition, and are a U.S. citizen or reside here legally.

This program may be able to help you, if you've been locked out of the insurance market, until 2014.  In 2014, you will have access to affordable health insurance choices through a new competitive marketplace called an Exchange and you will no longer be discriminated against based on a pre-existing condition. 

The program

• Covers a broad range of health benefits, including primary and speciality care, hospital care, and prescription drugs.  All covered benefits are available to you, even to treat a pre-existing condition.
• Doesn't charge you a higher premium just because of your medical condition.
• Doesn't base eligibility on income.

Each state may use a different method to determine whether a person has a pre-existing condition or has been denied health insurance coverage.  For more information, including eligibility, plan benefits and rates, and how to apply, visit www.pcip.gov and click on "Find Your State."  Then select your state from a map of the United States or from the drop-down menu.  The PCIP Call Center is open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time.  Call toll-free 1-866-717-5826 (TTY 1-866-561-1604).