Portability for Integrated Shield plans likely to raise premiums

RECENTLY I switched my sons’ Integrated Shield plans (IPs) to a different insurer. That exercise was a breeze; they were young (age 25 and 26) with no claims history nor any pre-existing illnesses. In terms of risk profile, they are highly desirable for any insurer.

But that wasn’t so for me – I am much older. Even though I am healthy with no claims history as well, I was told a switch wasn’t advisable. My annual health screen, for example, shows I have osteopenia and elevated cholesterol. Both may not be unusual at my age, but may be seen as pre-existing conditions and may trigger exclusions or premium loadings.

The issue of IP “portability”, which refers to the ability to switch between IP providers with no exclusions or restrictions on pre-existing conditions, is one that occupies both policyholders and the government.