HIPAA
What is HIPAA, and how can this federal law affect me?
HIPAA is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 , a federal law that includes protection for working Americans and
their families who have pre-existing medical conditions or might suffer discrimination in health coverage based on a factor that relates to an
individual's health. It became effective in July 1997.
HIPAA does the following:
- Limits exclusions for pre-existing conditions;
- Prohibits discrimination against employees and dependents based on their health status;
- Guarantees renewability and availability of health coverage to certain employers and individuals;
- Protects many workers who lose health coverage by providing better access to individual health insurance coverage.
Issuance and acceptance of HIPAA's Certificates of Prior Creditable Coverage
HIPAA certificates will be issued automatically for members once we have received notification of termination from the group.
Click here to request a certificate.
Conversion from Group to Individual Coverage
HIPAA does not impact the normal conversion products offered to members when they terminate from group coverage.
However, a HIPAA individual product is available to individuals who can provide evidence of 18 months or more of prior creditable coverage.
For more information or to determine your eligibility for this product, contact the Individual Health Products Service Department at 1-800-544-6679.
Obtain detailed HIPPA infomation.