Extension of Dependent Coverage – Section 2714

Provision
(a) IN GENERAL.-A group health plan and a health insurance issuer offering group or individual health insurance coverage that provides dependent coverage of children shall continue to make such coverage available for an adult child (who is not married) until the child turns 26 years of age. Nothing in this section shall require a health plan or a health insurance issuer described in the preceding sentence to make coverage available for a child of a child receiving dependent coverage.
(b) REGULATIONS.-The Secretary shall promulgate regulations to define the dependents to which coverage shall be made available under subsection (a).
(c) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.-Nothing in this section shall be construed to modify the definition of ‘dependent’ as used in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 with respect to the tax treatment of the cost of coverage.
Summary
Insurance plans that provide dependent coverage of children must provide coverage for adult children up to age 26 (unmarried) for all group and individual policies.
What does this mean for the bleeding disorders community?
This is a great provision for our community because it will allow for a little more choice and freedom after a child with a chronic disorder turns 18. Until age 26, if you are a dependent (unmarried) you can remain on your parents’ insurance plan.