According to the LA Times, some California insurance companies are refusing to sell individual coverage to people based solely on their jobs. "Entire categories of workers--including roofers, pro athletes, dockworkers, migrant workers and firefighters--are turned down for insurance even if they are in good health and can afford coverage, according to the confidential underwriting guidelines of four health plans," reports the Times. Though the practice is legal under California law, observers say the rules will have to change if the state is to be successful in its bid to expand healthcare coverage to 6.6 million Californians. If this is to happen, people not covered by their employer must be able to purchase their own coverage, but this is not possible if their job itself prevents coverage. This is just one of many pitfalls legislators much negotiate, as more and more states attempt to require healthcare coverage of all residents.
To learn more:
- read this LA Times article