• Make sure you understand the laws in Massachusetts that could affect your health insurance.cost of healthcare image by Cindy Haggerty from Fotolia.com
  
  Massachusetts is unlike many states in that it mandates health insurance coverage for almost every citizen living in the state. Before you purchase health insurance in Massachusetts, however, you need to make sure you understand the insurance laws in that state which can dramatically affect your coverage and eligibility.
  
  

Renewability

• Once you have a health insurance policy in Massachusetts, you cannot lose it. You are guaranteed the option to renew every year as long as you pay the policy premiums. The insurance company cannot deny you coverage because of your health or age. This means that, as long as you haven't lied on the application for insurance and your payments are received on time, you are guaranteed health insurance coverage.
  
  

Pre-Existing Conditions

• Massachusetts health insurance companies are not allowed to exclude pre-existing conditions. This is significant, because most other states allow pre-existing conditions to be excluded for a certain period of time. So, if you have a pre-existing condition, your condition will be covered immediately once you have health insurance in force.
  
  

Health Insurance Minimum Standards

• Nearly every individual qualifies for some type of health insurance in Massachusetts. In fact, health insurance is mandated for nearly everyone in Massachusetts. Individuals who are 150 percent below the federal income poverty line will receive free health care through a state insurance program. Government-sponsored programs are established for a wide range of needs to ensure that nearly every individual is covered.
  
  

Coverage of Newborns

• Newborns and adopted children are automatically accepted on their parent's health insurance policy for a minimum of 31 days if the policy already provides care for dependents. After this date, the policy must be changed to reflect the additional subscribers.
  
  

Health Insurance Ratings

• In Massachusetts, your premiums cannot be increased because of a decline in your health. Your premiums also cannot be increased due to your gender. However, your premiums can be affected by demographics, age and the size of your family.