Question
Can Aetna deny my application on the basis of pre-exisiting condition? Do they discriminate against the mentally ill?
I signed up for group LTD/STD through my employer. I filled out their medical information form online and just received a denial for any coverage due to “bi-polar”. They ask on the application if you take medication & if so for what. I am on lamictal for bipolar. I’m not sure what my bipolar that has been treated for 23 years has to do with if I get hurt and can’t work? My director says that I quite possible may have a legal matter on my hands as 1) denying application for a pre-existing condition during open enrollment and 2) discrimination against the mentally ill… is any of this true? Their blatant denial for my “bipolar” was a bit of a kick in the gut. I know my colleague has a heart condition & she was not denied our group coverage?
Answer
Molly, unlike health insurance plans, a disability insurance carrier can deny application for coverage based on medical history. We would be more than happy to review any correspondence Aetna may have sent you relating to the denial of coverage.
