Is this a pre-existing condition?

Question:

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 24 years ago. I moved out of state and was without insurance for several months. I now have insurance through my employer, but have to wait 6 months before I can be covered for a pre-existing condition. I have recently been having issues with 1 of my eyes (retinopathy I'm assuming) and would like to get it checked. My question is if it is diabetic retinopathy, would this be considered a pre-existing condition since it's related to my diabetes or would this be considered a unique diagnosis for which I would be covered? And if the answer is that it would not be covered and I go see a doctor right away, would I be correct in assuming that any costs incurred after the 6 months then would be covered?

Answers:
It shouldn't be pre-existing. Yes, diabetes is, however, the retinopathy is an entirely new diagnosis. It should be covered.

You could call your ophthalmologist's office and speak to one of his Tech's and they should be able to tell your for sure.

that's tough to say. even if the problems with the eye are just starting, some companies may consider it pre-existing due to the diabetes. the best thing to do is call the insurance company and get the right answer, so you're not surprised by any costs not covered by them.

Is this a pre-existing condition?

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