I just wrote a note to a man who was having trouble with his health insurance coverage.  He was trying to switch carriers, but no one would take him because of his “preexisting condition”.  A lot of states have laws to protect people in this situation.  One resource is healthinsuranceinfo.net, which has extensive coverage of the insurance laws of the 50 states.  I also came across this notice courtesy of my fellow blogger, Joel Nowak (advancedprostatecancer.net).

The Health Insurance Assistance Service (HIAS).


The American Cancer Society has undertaken a unique effort to help cancer patients who have lost or are in danger of losing their health care coverage – the Health Insurance Assistance Service (HIAS).Along with the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, The Society is sponsoring a free resource that connects cancer patients with health insurance specialists who help resolve their individual problems. To access this service call the ACS cancer information number, 1-800-ACS-2345.Currently the program provides assistance to programs in 28 states, with plans to continue expanding the program.

“HIAS can explain your insurance benefits to you and also help you find additional resources. It is tremendously valuable. If you have questions regarding your coverage, experts help you know what questions to ask and whom you should be asking. No one else, hospitals or insurance companies, is providing a similar service,” said Deb Dillingham, Director of Quality of Life for the Great Lakes Division of the Society.

Therefore, if you are having problems with your medical insurance, try calling 1-800-ACS-2345 and see if they can help.