Could I lose my health insurance if I open up to my doctor about eating disorder history?

Answers (1)

Jeremy Frank PhD.CAC (Addiction Psychologist) answered (9/4/2012)

No you can't loose your health insurance and only in very very rare situations have I ever heard that someone has been denied coverage for a preexisting condition related to an eating disorder or substance abuse that a health insurance company later found out about.

It's really important that you can talk to your doctor about your eating disorder and I know how hard it can be to open up about it. However you are hiring her to be your doctor and she works for your. It makes all the sense in the world to open up to your doctor. They are under strict ethical guidelines and contracts not to violate your confidentiality.

If you can't open up to your doctor at first then speak with an addiction psychologist who can guide you through your options and help you decide what you might be ready to do about your ED.

Your job is to be safe and to learn as much as you can and then when you are ready you will begin to be clearer on what changes, if any, you are willing to make.

Jeremy Frank
www.jeremyfrankphd.com
Philadelphia Psychologist and Addiction Counselor