Pre-existing Conditions
Definition
Any medical condition that started before a person's health insurance went into effect.
Analogy
Imagine you're buying car insurance for a used car that already has some dents on it. Those dents would be considered "pre-existing conditions" - damage that was present before you got your insurance policy.
Related terms
Coverage denial: When an insurance company refuses to cover treatment or medication costs due to various reasons such as pre-existing conditions.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): A law that provides rights and protections for participants and beneficiaries in group health plans.
Affordable Care Act (ACA): A law intended to improve access to affordable health coverage for everyone including those with pre-existing conditions.
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