Best Health Insurance Agencies in Alabama

Alabama Health Insurance FAQs

• Can an insurance company in Alabama reduce coverage because the insured did not pre-certify a hospital stay?

  If the health plan specifies that a hospital stay has to be pre-certified, the insurance company may be able to reduce the payout or deny the benefits in accordance with the terms indicated in the policy. Insured persons are always advised by the Alabama Department of Insurance to read their policy carefully, especially in the section indicating pre-certification.

• How can one in Alabama get medical care if they do not qualify for Medicaid?

  There are Federally Qualified Health Centers all around the state that can provide assistance to those who do not qualify for Medicaid. These facilities typically charge patients based on their financial means. In some communities in Alabama, there are local medical clinics that provide services to people who do not have health insurance.

• In Alabama, what kind of event necessitates exemption outside of the open enrollment period?

  Alabamans can enroll in a health plan outside of the open enrollment period if they have qualifying life events such as adoption, marriage, divorce, or unemployment. Those who recently lost coverage from Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program are also exempted. Any new applicants for these government healthcare programs can enroll anytime.

• Are short-term health insurance plans sold in Alabama?

  Yes, short-term health insurance can be bought in Alabama. Some plans can provide coverage for as short as a month, while others can have coverage for a year. Short-term insurance can benefit those who need to fill in gaps in coverage. These may be good for people between jobs, just out of college, and waiting for new coverage to kick in.

• How long must an insurance company in Alabama provide a payout for a health claim?

  Insurance companies are required by law in Alabama to pay or deny a claim within 45 days after receiving documentation for proof of loss. For electronic claims, the deadline is 30 days. There is an exemption to this deadline if further information is required. Any undisputed part of the claim must be paid out within the deadline. Otherwise, the insurer has to pay an interest rate of 1.5 per month-- prorated daily-- of delay.