Insurance for Smokers
Health insurance costs for smokers are almost invariably higher than costs for non smokers. The dangers of smoking have been widely confirmed by medical research, and insurance providers consider smoking to be one of the greatest risks to a member's health. The costs of treating lung cancer, heart attacks, stroke, emphysema, bronchitis, asthma and other serious conditions linked to smoking cause insurers to raise rates for smokers in order to cope with the increased risk of claims.
Tobacco use is not the only factor that insurance providers consider when they determine how much your health insurance will cost. Your age, medical history, the nature of your occupation and pastimes and other factors are taken into account, as well. If you are healthy in general and you are under the age of 50, your overall well being may reduce your premium slightly. However, your rates will still be higher than rates for a non smoker in your age group.
Conditions Related to Smoking
The primary purpose of health insurance is to provide access to private medical treatment for acute conditions. An acute illness is a new condition that is relatively easy to diagnose and cure. Smoking can increase your risk for acute illnesses such as bronchitis, respiratory infections, colds and influenza. The effects of smoking weaken the respiratory system and reduce your body's natural ability to fight infections, especially infections that affect your breathing passages and lungs.
Smoking may also contribute to gastrointestinal disorders, such as indigestion and heartburn. Although the link between cigarette smoking and acid reflux has not been clearly established, smoking has been linked to a higher incidence of this condition, which occurs when stomach acids rise up into the esophagus. Repeated episodes of acid reflux over long periods of time may damage the esophagus, the tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach.
Smoking has been linked with serious diseases such as cancers of the lungs, throat and mouth; heart disease; emphysema; vascular disease; macular degeneration; and osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disorder. Because smoking increases the risk that a person will require extensive medical treatment, including diagnostic tests, specialist consultations, surgery and hospitalisation, health insurance for smokers is more expensive.
If you smoke and you have a prior history of cancer, emphysema, stroke or heart disease, you may not be covered for these conditions under private health insurance. Most insurers restrict coverage for pre existing conditions. Some insurers may deny coverage altogether if an applicant has a history of a severe smoking-related illness.
Benefits of Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking for a certain period of time may lower your insurance rates whilst reducing your risk of acute illness or chronic disease. By giving up tobacco, you may enjoy higher energy levels and a more active, healthy lifestyle. Non smokers have fewer colds and respiratory infections and enjoy better breathing and circulation. The sense of taste and smell improve after quitting smoking, which means that you may derive more enjoyment from foods and beverages.
If you wish to quit smoking, your insurance provider may offer a number of services to assist you. Wellness programmes and online services are available to provide motivation and education and to track your progress. Nicotine replacement products and other medications can support you in your efforts to give up this highly addictive substance.
Health insurance for smokers is more expensive and more difficult to obtain than cover for non smokers. After you've stopped smoking for a certain period of time, such as 1 to 2 years, you may qualify for lower premiums. Keep your provider informed of the improvements you are making in your health.
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