Inquiry: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing (Aug 2008)

Does High-Risk Pool Coverage Meet the Needs of People at Risk for Disability?

  • Jean P. Hall,
  • Janice M. Moore

DOI
https://doi.org/10.5034/inquiryjrnl_45.03.340
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 45

Abstract

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State high-risk insurance pools serve people denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions. With benefit plans modeled on the individual market, these pools generally require higher out-of-pocket expenditures and provide fewer benefits than employer-sponsored plans, while their beneficiaries have very intensive needs. We profile 416 working adults enrolled in a state high-risk pool and document their health conditions and health care utilization. High-risk pool and federal employee benefits are compared to assess insurance structure and implications for health and disability outcomes.