Can I be denied health insurance for abusing alcohol?

Yes, it is possible to be denied health insurance coverage or charged higher premiums if you have a history of alcohol abuse or other substance abuse. This is because insurance companies consider individuals with a history of alcohol abuse to be at a higher risk of developing certain health conditions or requiring costly medical treatment. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance companies are not allowed to deny coverage to individuals based on pre-existing conditions, including alcohol abuse. However, they are allowed to charge higher premiums based on certain factors, such as age and tobacco use. Some insurance companies may also require a waiting period before covering treatment for substance abuse or limit coverage for certain services or medications. If you have a history of alcohol abuse and are looking for health insurance coverage, it's important to be upfront about your medical history and any pre-existing conditions when applying for coverage. You may also want to consider looking for insurance plans that offer coverage for substance abuse treatment and have more lenient underwriting guidelines for individuals with pre-existing conditions. In addition, some states have passed laws that prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage or charging higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions, including substance abuse. It's worth checking with your state's insurance department to see if any such laws apply in your state. In summary, while insurance companies are not allowed to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, including alcohol abuse, they may charge higher premiums or limit coverage for certain services. It's important to be upfront about your medical history when applying for coverage and to look for insurance plans that offer coverage for substance abuse treatment.