Pre-Membership Conditions
Definition of a Pre-Membership Condition
A pre-existing medical condition is any illness or injury for which a member has:
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Been examined,
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Taken medication,
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Experienced symptoms, or
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Received medical treatment
...within the 24 months prior to the membership start date.
Pre-Existing Conditions for Cancer
For previously diagnosed cancers, any testing, preventive treatments, prophylactics, or medications taken by the member within 36 months before the membership start date will result in a recurrence of that type of cancer being classified as a pre-existing condition.
Exceptions That Are Not Considered Pre-Existing
Certain conditions are excluded from being classified as pre-existing, provided they meet specific criteria:
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High blood pressure, high cholesterol, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and type 2 diabetes are not considered pre-existing if:
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The member has not been hospitalized for the condition in the 12 months prior to joining ShareWELL.
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Pre-Existing Condition Phase-In Period
ShareWELL implements a phase-in period for sharing medical expenses related to pre-existing conditions. During this period, sharing is limited but increases annually:
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Year One: $0 (waiting period; no sharing allowed for pre-existing conditions).
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Year Two: Up to $30,000 maximum per need.
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Year Three: Up to $60,000 maximum per need.
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Year Four: Up to $150,000 maximum per need.
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Year Five: No sharing limit for pre-existing conditions; sharing is fully available.
Medical Record Addendums
ShareWELL may request medical records to evaluate sharing eligibility for pre-existing conditions. In cases where a medical record addendum is necessary, the following requirements must be met:
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The addendum must be provided alongside an official document from the relevant healthcare provider.
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The document must include:
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The provider’s signature,
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The signature date,
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A description of the changes made, and
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The reason for the changes.
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In Summary
ShareWELL provides a fair and transparent approach to managing pre-existing medical conditions. By implementing waiting periods, phase-in limits, and clear exceptions, the program supports members while ensuring sustainability for the broader community.
Medical Conditions Existing Prior to Membership
Pre-membership medical conditions are health issues that existed before a member joined ShareWELL. These conditions are subject to specific sharing limitations to maintain affordability for the community. Below is how ShareWELL handles pre-existing medical conditions
HealthShare offers a phased-in approach for pre-membership conditions. Initially, there's a one-year waiting period from your membership start date. Then, the sharing amount increases yearly.