Pennsylvania to open high-risk insurance program for uninsured individuals with pre-existing medical conditions

'PA Fair Care' to Start Taking Applications Aug. 4

As part of the national health insurance reform, Pennsylvania this week will open a high-risk insurance program for uninsured individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario said today.

"Full federal health reform is still three years away," Ario said. "In the meantime, we are doing everything we can for Pennsylvanians to have access to affordable, quality health care.

"Many uninsured people have been denied affordable coverage and care due to their health status. Health insurers will be prohibited from denying coverage or charging sick people more for insurance in 2014, but people need more options until we get to that point. So I am very pleased to announce that our high-risk plan, PA Fair Care, will be up and running later this week."

PA Fair Care, administered statewide through a contract with Highmark Blue Shield, offers a broad range of benefits, including preventive care, physician services, diagnostic testing, hospitalization, mental health services and prescription medications. Subsidized premiums are $283.20 a month, plus additional co-pays and coinsurance.

The program has initial funding to serve approximately 3,500 individuals. Eligible applicants will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis.  

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Insurance