unfortunately the answer to this question is yes. as of right now if you apply for insurance on the private market (as opposed to getting it through your job) insurance companies will look into your medical history and can deny you coverage based on what they find. in some instances you may be extended a plan in spite of a pre-existing health condition but will be charged more for it. as of january 2014 however the affordable care act (the health reform law) will prohibit insurers from denying anyone coverage on the basis of their medical history. in addition carriers won't be allowed to charge people different rates for health insurance because of their health status or gender. if you've shopped for health insurance on the private market and have been denied coverage don't give up just yet. some minor health issues (think well-controlled asthma migraines etc. but not diabetes or heart disease however) won't be declined by every insurance company.
are insurers still able to deny coverage to individuals because of pre-existing conditions?