New Laws to Protect Kids with Pre-existing Conditions

Gladys Soto with her son and daughter

The new health care law prohibits insurance companies from refusing to cover kids with pre-existing conditions. This is great for families with special needs children. In the term 'pre-existing, I would imagine it would encompass mental disorders as well, though many mental disorders have physical side effects that in the past, insurance agencies have used as a basis to refuse coverage. The article tells the unfortunate story of Gladys Soto, who was unable to ensure her family, after losing her job, and being told that the cost of insuring her son with asthma would be more than she could afford. Many other families are familiar with this unfortunate predicament. With the new health care law though, insurance agencies will be getting many more customers which will eliminate the need to charge extra for individuals with pre-existing conditions. The article was not clear whether they will be required to not charge extra, only that they will be unable to refuse to cover, but it is my hope that equal health care coverage will be available to all, regardless of any problems they may have.