On March 23rd of 2010 the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was passed into law (ACA/Obamacare for short.)
Since passage, pre-existing conditions may no longer be considered by health insurance companies when applying for an individual health insurance policy. Pre-existing medical conditions typically are not an issue when it comes to employer group health plans, and never when it comes to original Medicare.
Medicare supplement plans are a different story. Applicants outside the six month open enrollment period (guaranteed issue period) following enrollment in Medicare Part B may be subject to medical underwriting. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Arizona has very liberal underwriting, and it is very rare for an applicant that missed their open enrollment period to be denied. The applicant may have to pay a higher rate based on certain pre-existing conditions or tobacco use. If the applicant is attempting to switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare supplement policy, it is recommended that they submit to the insurer the Medicare supplement application for approval and premium rate before dis-enrolling in the Advantage plan.
Pre-existing conditions may also affect premium rates and/or acceptance when applying for short term health insurance policies, disability plans, long term care (LTC,)and travel insurance.