The NJ state government insurance web site (http://www.state.nj.us/dobi/division_insurance/ihcseh/ihcbuygd.html#ObtainCoverage) states that NJ health insurers must "establish community rates -- which are rates that apply to all people who purchase the same IHC plan and do not vary based on an individual person’s . . . health status. However, carriers may use modified community rates for the Basic and Essential Plan (B&E Plan) where rates may vary based on age, gender and geographic location. Health status is not a permissible rating factor for any plan." Does this mean that if a person who has a serious, chronic condition (e.g., cancer), and has continuous coverage under an old plan which expires under COBRA, that person can buy a new individual plan and not have to pay any more than a healthy person?
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