Will my insurance cover me if I have to remove screws from a previous broken ankle?

Question

Someone said that insurance co's won't. I broke it when I did not have insurance, so I am scared that if I have to get the screws out , then I will be in worse medical debt!! Any info will be greatly appreciated!!! God Bless.

Answer 1

It depends how long ago you had the screws put in.  Most policies have a 12 month wait on pre-existing conditions.  If your insurance company hasn't put a rider on your ankle and you haven't sought treatment for the condition in the last 12 months it would most likely be covered

Answer 2

It will depend on two things. It is a pre-existing condition, but if you have been on your current insurance plan long enough so you are no longer subject to the pre-existing limitation clause that won't be a problem. Most plans have a pre-existing limitation clause that last 12 months so if you have been on the plan for 12 months then it wouldn't apply to you. If you haven't been on the plan for 12 months, simply wait 12 months until you have been to have the surgery.

The other issue is whether or not the procedure is medically necessary. If your physician deems it medical necessary to remove the screws then it is irrelevant that they were put in when you didn't have insurance.

Answer 3

Yes.  My plan covered the minor surgery to remove my screws. They were hurting, and it was common to remove at least a couple of them, according to my bone doc.

Removing an entire implant with a major surgury might be different, however.

In any case, be sure to get everything pre-authorized at the medical office.

Answer 4

it's probably because of the pre-existing condition clause.  they may not cover it, but the hospital will probaly work out something with you.  usually, insurance covere pre-existing conditions after a year. it will really depend on the company though.  if they don't pay for the s***w removal and you don't have them removed--then they are looking at much higher costs in the future.  if you have to, try contacting the insurance company and seeing what they can tell you

Answer 5

they should as long as its not cosmetic, and its completely necessary