Nursing School Insurance and Pre-Existing Condition

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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Hello,

I am looking into potentially becoming a nurse if I can. Early this past year, I was diagnosed with an illness that kind of came out of left field. It's definitely taken it's toll on me a bit (I've been out on leave for almost half a year already because of said illness), but it's also made me think of becoming a nurse. Right now I am doing some preliminary research on programs and schools, primarily ABSN and AMSN programs since I have a BA already.

In doing research, it seems that all the schools require students be insured and also carry during clinicals. I was just wondering for those of you who might have a pre-existing condition, how did you handle these insurance requirements? Do most schools have SHIP that don't factor in pre-existing conditions? I know it may vary for each school, but for those of you who have a pre-existing condition and elected to go with a SHIP, have you found it to be sufficient? Also, how much do you pay per year for the SHIP?

Do any of you just rely on COBRA from a previous job? I am employed right now and have a pretty good insurance plan especially since my company contributes to the monthly premium. However, without the company contribution, it will be rather expensive.

Anyway, lots of things to think about on my end, but just trying to do my due diligence and see if becoming a nurse is possible. Thanks in advance.

*Edit* To the board moderator, wasn't sure if this is the right forum to post, so please move as necessary and my apologies.

I agree to check with your state laws. Also, my state has a program where they offer pretty good health ins for people that cannot get insured elsewhere, rates are pretty reasonable. I have a history of CHF and I am in my early 30's (it has been under control for awhile now) and no one wants to insure me! So check to see if your state offers anything like that.

Thank you for posting this question and for everyone's responses. My nursing program also requires health insurance (of course, since we'll be exposed to all sorts of diseases and injuries in the hospital) but I have type 1 diabetes and have never been able to get private insurance. Thanks for giving suggestions to check out.

Hi bmelissa,

I'm in California and looking to stay here. The good news being here is that a resident is allowed up to 36 months of COBRA coverage. Haven't looked at the state's insurance programs since passage of the Obama's healthcare act. However, I do know that the state has two programs, the PCIP (Pre-Existing Conditions Insurance Plan) and MRMIP (Major Risk Medical Insurance Plan) for people with PECs of which I will be looking over with a fine tooth comb. Also, don't know how things will be come 2014, my target year to start nursing school. So can I presume that you're covered through your state's PCIP?

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