How long can a plan exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions?

The correct duration for which a health insurance plan can exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, as defined by the Affordable Care Act and applicable regulations in many states including Indiana, is typically no more than 12 months. However, in some specific circumstances under certain conditions, longer exclusion periods were seen prior to the implementation of the ACA, but these are not applicable in modern health policy.

It's important to recognize that the 12-month exclusion period is intended as a standardized guideline that aligns with consumer protection provisions against discrimination based on health status. Additionally, under current rules, coverage for pre-existing conditions cannot be denied or limited due to prior health issues for any individual when acquiring new health insurance, unlike in previous eras.

Therefore, while 20 months might have been a consideration in historical contexts or under certain specific plans that adhered to older regulations, it does not accurately reflect the current legal framework governing pre-existing conditions in health insurance coverage today. Understanding these guidelines helps consumers recognize their rights and the protections afforded to them under current health insurance laws.