Mini-meds defined-benefit coverage
for the medically uninsurable, guaranteed-issue plans that cover typical expenses

If you've been turned down for major medical insurance you have a new option: a mini-med plan.

Mini-meds (also called "defined benefit" health plans) are guaranteed-issue health insurance, which means anyone can buy them regardless of pre-existing health conditions. There is no underwriting and no health questions are asked.

Seem too good to be true? It's because these plans have defined limits on coverage, which means less risk for the insurance company. They pay set amounts and are not designed to provide catastrophic coverage.

Benefits of mini-meds: first-dollar coverage, easy to understand, PPO discounts

With no deductibles or co-insurance to satisfy, provide you with first dollar coverage. Mini-meds typically offer negotiated discounts through a PPO, but can be used at any provider -- see whoever you like, or enjoy greater discounts in-network. Many offer dental, vision and prescription discounts.

Mini-meds are simple to understand ... they provide scheduled benefits for inpatient and outpatient services. For example, you can choose a plan that pays $1,000 a day for hospital coverage for the first 100 days.

Anyone between the ages of 18-65 and their unmarried, dependent children up to the age of 19 or 25 if they are a full-time student, are eligible for coverage.

Coverage on pre-existing conditions

Just as with traditional insurance, there can be a waiting period for expenses due to a pre-existing condition. You can be covered for pre-existing conditions immediately if you come off a group or employer-sponsored plan and can supply a Certificate of Creditable Coverage stating you've had at least 12 months of continuous coverage with no more than a 63-day lapse

Most plans (such as the ones linked to from this site) are HIPAA qualified, meaning they can be considered "creditable coverage" by other carriers. If you have one these plans and later get a group insurance plan through an employer, the time on these plans may count toward the 12 month pre-existing waiting period for your new insurance.

No matter what type of insurance you choose, be a responsible consumer and understand what you are purchasing and review the benefits and limitations are.