Confounding Case Bleg

Co-blogger Bob offers a poser:

"Unusual situation referred to me by agent in another state.

Mother-in-law relocated to Atlanta from Pakistan. Green card holder, age 71. Health status unknown (didn't ask). Looking at possible options. Coming up empty or "are you kidding".

■ Medicaid - possibly the best option depending on how they define household income.

■ Obamacare - I assume she can qualify but no subsidy. Outrageous premiums and OOP

■ International travel medical - pre-ex snake pit

■ Health share ministry - must be Christian? Other religious affinity including Muslim? Pre-ex? Not readily accepted by docs/hospitals since no guarantee of payment. HSM is a very remote possibility but want to throw that out as an option."

I checked the 404Care.gov site, and was surprised to learn that "Gained citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S." triggers a Special Open Enrollment opportunity.

So, armed with her new zip code, I went plan shopping. The least expensive option was a Bronze level Blue Cross plan with a $6,750 deductible and a $740 a month price tag.

The advantage, though, is that it's guaranteed issue and pre-existing conditions are covered right away.

Since we don't know her health status, it's impossible to determine whether or not other non-Medicaid options would work (since they all have either underwriting, or pre-existing conditions limitations, or both).

I also thought about "Dave's Plan," but the age cut-off for that is 64½.
 

Alas and alack.

So, suggestions welcome.