I imagine those premiums are for Tier 1 customers (in good health without pre-existing conditions). Insurance companies also offer plans at higher cost for various pre-existing conditions. Once you apply they evaluate your medical information and place you in a rate tier. Blue Shield for example has tier 1 through tier 6 (plus a special tier 7 for minors).
If you meet some other qualifications (in particular have had coverage for 18 months and have used up any COBRA options you have), you are entitled to a guaranteed issue plan in CA if you are declined for an underwritten plan:
Comments
I imagine those premiums are for Tier 1 customers (in good health without pre-existing conditions). Insurance companies also offer plans at higher cost for various pre-existing conditions. Once you apply they evaluate your medical information and place you in a rate tier. Blue Shield for example has tier 1 through tier 6 (plus a special tier 7 for minors).
If you meet some other qualifications (in particular have had coverage for 18 months and have used up any COBRA options you have), you are entitled to a guaranteed issue plan in CA if you are declined for an underwritten plan:
http://www.hmohelp.ca.gov/dmhc_consumer/hp/hp_cobra.aspx
http://www.hmohelp.ca.gov/dmhc_consumer/hp/hp_hipaacp.aspx