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POSTED: | BY: Lynn
Seem EVERYTHING is PRE-EXISTING
Only recently did I learn that the "fine print" of my ASPCA insurance considered ANYTHING DIAGNOSED BEFORE THE CURRENT POLICY PERIOD WOULD BE CONSIDERED PRE-EXISTING. This was especially deceiving given I was paying an additional premium for "continuing care" coverage. My dog had a few cysts, and the Vet aspirated them for lab review. They were just "cysts," so no need to risk surgical complications by removing them. Instead, Vet advised we periodically check them to make sure they remain 'just cysts.' Since we did not have them surgically removed, any annual check-ups on these cysts were deemed "pre-existing." Therefore, if these cysts transformed into something more serious (like moles on people that can become melanoma down the raod), surgery and/or treatments would no be covered because they are "pre-existing."
DO NOT USE ASPCA IF YOUR PET DEVELOPS ANY CHRONIC AILMENTS BECAUSE CLAIMS WILL BE DENIED.
Unfortunately, I discovered this little 'trick' when my dog turned 13. Now I can't get coverage for ANY of her increasingly chronic conditions. :( Guess I'll have to make that horrible decision down the road between money or her life, as we do not have the financial cushion to afford diagnostics or treatment for serious illness.