Additional coverage for my daughter?

Question

My ex and I have seperated and we have a daughter. I switched jobs and lost coverage for her temporarily. My ex managed to get blue cross blue shield for my daughter. My ex and I hardly communicate anymore and she doesn't reveal any of the baby's medical information to me. I have since been able to get insurance but I would like to insure my daughter as well. My question is would I be able to put her under my plan even though she already has her mothers insuranc? I'd like to take her to a doctor that I know under my plan but I know my ex will refuse to let me do so and give me a hard time. Thanks

Answer 1

Yes you should add her to get additional coverage however you will need to let them know she has other coverage and they will need to coordinate benefits. One carrier has to be primary and the other secondary.

Answer 2

You can certainly insure your daughter under your plan if your plan allows you to, keep in mind if you have a group plan that there are time restrictions on when you are able to add or drop coverage, I just don't see the need for you to double insure her especially since you state that you know that your ex will not allow you to take your daughter to a doctor you know.

What would be the point of insuring her if you will not be able to use the plan? Even though you and your ex are having problems communicating it is rational to think that your ex is taking care of the baby with doctor visits and immunizations. I would try a little harder to communicate with your ex, maybe she will start to share information with you about how the baby is doing, like  results of well baby visits, etc. You have the right to ask if you are sharing joint custody. Best wishes.

Answer 3

Yes, you can.

Answer 4

If you are doing this for your own peace of mind-to know that your daughter has coverage-that's one thing. But you should know that once there are 2 carriers involved:

1.You may be paying for additional coverage that may or may not pick up any additional benefit.

2.The "birthday rule" applies here-whichever parent's birthday (month and day-year does not matter) occurs first in the calandar year, will be considered primary. If your ex's birthday is first in the calandar year, you may be paying premiums for her that do not pan out into additional benefits paid. You should check your policy for COB rules.

I know this is a difficult situation, but someone needs to come to the rescue of this child and be the adult. Start communicating with your ex-your daughter's health and welfare is at stake here!!