§ 23-97-308 - Preexisting condition. - Arkansas Statutes

23-97-308. Preexisting condition.

(a) No long-term care insurance policy or certificate other than a policy or certificate issued to a group approved by the Insurance Commissioner under 23-97-304(6)(B) shall:

(1) Use a definition of "preexisting condition" that is more restrictive than the following: "Preexisting condition" means a condition for which medical advice or treatment was recommended by or received from a provider of health care services within six (6) months preceding the effective date of coverage of an insured person; or

(2) Exclude coverage for a loss or confinement that is the result of a preexisting condition unless the loss or confinement begins within six (6) months following the effective date of coverage of an insured person.

(b) The commissioner may extend the limitation periods set forth in subsection (a) of this section for specific age group categories in specific policy forms upon finding that the extension is in the best interest of the public.

(c) (1) The definition of "preexisting condition" does not prohibit an insurer from using an application form designed to elicit the complete health history of an applicant when underwriting in accordance with the insurer's established underwriting standards.

(2) Unless otherwise provided in the policy or certificate, a preexisting condition, regardless of whether it is disclosed on the application, need not be covered until the waiting period described in subdivision (a)(2) of this section expires.

(3) No long-term care insurance policy or certificate may exclude or use waivers or riders of any kind to exclude, limit, or reduce coverage or benefits for specifically named or described preexisting diseases or physical conditions beyond the waiting period described in subdivision (a)(2) of this section.