Inclusive Health (NC Health Insurance Risk Pool)
The Problem
The North Carolina Health Insurance Risk Pool, now known as Inclusive Health, was established by the NC General Assembly in summer 2007 to provide affordable, individual health insurance coverage for North Carolinians who do not have access to an employer health plan and face higher premiums due to a pre-existing medical condition. Part of the first year funding for this effort was provided through a one-time $5 million grant from HWTF. Inclusive Health also offers coverage to individuals who are federally defined as HIPAA-eligibles or qualify due to loss of employment due to the effects of international trade under the Health Coverage Tax Credit.
HWTF Solution (program description)
The HWTF Commission approved a one-time allocation of up to $5 million to support the establishment of a high-risk health insurance pool for North Carolinians who qualify for the program, called Inclusive Health. The high-risk pool will provide access to health insurance for people with serious health conditions that render them uninsurable. Inclusive Health opened for enrollment in October 2008 for coverage beginning January 2009. Eligible individuals with annual incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level will be eligible for sliding scale premium discounts of 20% - 43%.
Information on Inclusive Health’s benefits, rates and how to apply can be found at www.inclusivehealth.org or by calling the toll-free line at (866) 665-2117.