Issues Contributing to Ohio’s Uninsured Rate Examined
The Akron Beacon Journal on Tuesday examined how lapses in health insurance, pre-existing conditions and chronic illnesses are contributing to Ohio's uninsured rate. According to the Beacon Journal, 1.4 million, or about one in eight, people in the state are uninsured. According to the Beacon Journal, 56% of Ohio residents have a chronic health condition.
State Rep. Jim Raussen (R) said, "If you are healthy in the state of Ohio and you have a pretty decent job, health care coverage is affordable," adding, "Where do we get in trouble? Chronic illnesses and pre-existing conditions."
While residents' coverage cannot be canceled because of their illnesses, insurers legally can deny coverage based on health histories of people whose insurance has lapsed for more than 62 days, which can present problems for people who lose their jobs. Even people who switch jobs are at risk for allowing their coverage to lapse because some companies require individuals to be employed at least 90 days before they can qualify for health benefits. In addition, once an employee becomes eligible for new group insurance, insurers can deny coverage based on pre-existing or treatment of prior chronic health conditions for up to 12 months.
The state's Healthcare Coverage Initiative -- a task force developed by Gov. Ted Strickland (D) -- will soon release recommendations that aim to address the issues. The recommendations are expected to include a health care coverage mandate for individuals ages 19 to 29; requiring insurers to offer coverage to everyone, regardless of pre-existing conditions; extending COBRA benefits beyond the current 18 months; and helping small businesses offer employer-sponsored health coverage (Wheeler, Akron Beacon Journal, 6/24).
