What are the limitations regarding pre-existing medical conditions?
Some of our carriers will consider covering pre-existing conditions with an increase in your premium to cover ongoing medications or treatments. Keep in mind that with some carriers, pre-existing conditions are normally not covered during the first 12 months of the policy. Other pre-existing conditions cannot be covered. Your Account Manager will provide you with a list of these conditions as part of the quoting / application process.
How long will it take for my application to be approved?
Most underwriting is completed in approximately four weeks. The carrier will perform a phone interview, and in some states, a urine sample may be required. The carrier may also request medical records from your doctor. Keep in mind that while most doctors are quick to turn this information around, some are slow, and this may affect the time it takes to approve your application.
Do I need to meet with an agent?
No. you can complete the entire process online. We will assign an Account Manager to provide assistance over the phone or through email. But you are under no obligation to talk to your Account Manager - we offer it as an optional service to assist you in your health insurance decision application process.
Are the insurance companies reputable?
Marsh Consumer requires all its major medical carriers to be rated at least an "A-" by A.M. Best, an independent insurance-rating company.
Will I need to answer questions about my health history?
Yes. Because this is an individual and not a group policy, the insurance carrier will medically underwrite your application. Your application may be approved, your premium may be adjusted or you may be declined based on this medical underwriting.
Please do not let any concerns about the underwriting process prevent you from applying. Even if the insurance company does not want to approve your application because of your health history, your Account Manager can assist you with other options to obtain health insurance.
How do I find out if I can use my own doctor?
First, be sure to click the "Doctor Search" link on the quote page to see if your doctore is part of the carrier's network. Also, a book of all participating doctors will be sent to you upon approval of your policy, as well as a link to the carrier's site where you can find this information online.
Why do you need my personal information just to receive a health insurance quote?
We ask for your information for two reasons. First, basic information such as your date of birth, county in which you live, gender and tobacco status directly affect the quotes you will receive. Second, we ask for your contact information (such as telephone number and email address) so your dedicated Account Manager can provide personal assistance as you evaluate your health insurance options.
What is the difference between a quote and an application?
A quote is strictly a "base" premium based on the data (date of birth, city, etc.) given. Final rates are based on full medical underwriting, including an application. After the carrier receives the application, medical underwriting can include a phone interview, a urine specimen, a physical exam or some combination thereof. The majority of the underwriting lies in the application and phone interview. The carrier can also request full medical records from your provider. Based on all of this information, a final medical decision will be made -- i.e., approved as-is, approved at a higher rate, approved with a rider or declined.
Will I receive unsolicited contacts from insurance agents in my area?
Absolutely not. We do not sell or share your information to local insurance agent. We do, however, assign a Marsh Account Manager to assist you by telephone or email with health insurance needs. This is an optional service that you can utilize if you desire.
How do I apply?
After you receive your online quotes you select the plan that is best for you and click to request an application. When you receive your application (via e-mail, PDF download or U.S. mail), please fill it out and return it Marsh. We will prescreen the application and then forward it to the carrier for further medical underwriting.
Please do not cancel any coverage you may already have until a final offer is made and a policy number is issued.
Who do I call if I need help?
Click the Contact Us link above for telephone numbers and hours of operation.