PHAN Applauds the Start of High Risk Pool in PA and Works with Consumers to Help Them Enroll

Pennsylvania’s Health Plan for Uninsured Adults with Pre-Existing Conditions Starts Accepting Applications Today!!

 Philadelphia, PA (August 4^th, 2010) - Today marked the first day that individuals in Pennsylvania could start applying for  PA Fair Care- Pennsylvania’s health plan for uninsured adults with pre-existing conditions. This program is part of The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act which set aside 5 Billion dollars for states to operate high risk pools. Pennsylvania will receive $160 million over the life of the program. The Pennsylvania Health Access Network held three conference calls today to help spread the word about the application process. 

“While the program is not as expansive as we would have hoped, the high risk pools will serve as an important bridge both across the country and here in Pennsylvania to help individuals gain access to care until full federal health reform takes effect. This is a great first step," said Antoinette Kraus of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network. Matt Stetson of Philadelphia is one individual hoping to gain coverage under the program.

Matt applied this afternoon and hopes that he is one of the individuals accepted into the program. “After my COBRA ran out I was forced to look for coverage on the individual market. I was denied by several insurance companies because I have a pre-existing condition. I have been without insurance for over six months and this program will be a real life saver.”

 To qualify individuals must be a US citizen or lawful resident, a Pennsylvania resident, have a pre-existing health condition and be uninsured for the previous six months. The cost to enrollees is a subsidized premium of $283.20 monthly. Enrollment is on a first come first serves basis and in the first year will serve an estimated 3,500 individuals. To apply you can go online at www.pafaircare.com