Those with pre-existing health conditions often find it difficult to obtain health insurance coverage. With Kaiser Permanente, you have several options depending on whether you live in California or Georgia.

California Residents

California residents with serious pre-existing health conditions who own their own business should apply for a group health insurance plan. Group medical plans are issued automatically in California without health questionnaires and without concern for pre-existing conditions. The key here is that you must qualify for small business coverage. To qualify you must have at least two people; husband-wife businesses often qualify, especially if the couple files taxes jointly. If you do not own your own business, you may be able to get Individual and Family coverage. However, these plans do go through medical review and those with serious pre-existing health conditions are often denied. The only automatic denial stated by Kaiser underwriters is current pregnancy, but those with serious health conditions such as cancer, HIV, heart problems, obesity, etc. are often denied. If denied, your only chance of getting healthcare coverage may be to find employment (for you or your spouse) that offers a group medical plan or to apply for Medicare or Medical.

Georgia Residents

Georgia residents with serious pre-existing health conditions who own their own business should apply for a group health insurance plan. Your group health plan may be rated  up, meaning you will pay more, but you will not be denied. Kaiser Georgia does have the option to deny coverage on Individual and Family plans. However, if the pre-existing conditions are not too serious, you may simply be rated up and offered Individual and Family coverage at a higher price.