Question:
If I move to another state, could I keep my surgeon? Would new insurance be a problem

My husband is considering accepting a new job assignment in upstate NY (Utica). I grew up there and my family still lives in the area. My husband & I met & married up there as well. So, we have many fond memories and family and I would love to move back there. The only thing is, would I have to see a new surgeon for follow-up visits or can I keep MY surgeon? I love my dr. and it wouldn't be so bad to make a trip every several months or so to see him. It's maybe 250 miles but I'd be willing unless I HAVE to get a new surgeon. Also, if my husband would be unable to keep our present insurance, how would a new insurance complicate things? I'm taking $430 of meds ea. month & my insurance pays back 80% of that. I don't know alot about insurance stuff, but would a new insurance not pay for anything related to my surgery because of it being a pre-existing condition? Sorry if I sound so stupid.    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 12, 2001)

July 12, 2001
As long as there is no break in insurance it's not going to be considered a preexisting condition.I'm not exactly sure how long(someone else will know) but if you go directly from one insurance to another (through the employer) then it should still cover it. Now if there is going to be a break for say 3 months until the new coverage kicks in - I would get COBRA just to be on the safe side. That should be the same insurance you are carrying now. You'll have to pay for it- the company doesn't have to continue the coverage unless it's in your contract, but they do have to provide continuous coverage. What some people that I have worked with have done is wait until after the 1st week in the month to quit so that the company has already paid the premium and then they get off cheaper that way. I'm not real familiar with insurance myself - just know what I've heard.
   — K T.