Medicare, the federally funded health insurance program available to Americans 65 and older, had often been considered an ineffective health program by many. That doesn't seem to be the case anymore – especially when those under age 65 have health insurance from companies like MEGA Life and Health Company (MEGA). Many older Americans are now counting the days until their Medicare kicks in.

Case in point

A 64 year old California woman is one of those Americans counting the days. She had skin cancer removed from her nose 25 years ago. Since then, she has had a very difficult time obtaining health insurance. Enter MEGA – whom she thought would be the answer to her prayers. Unfortunately for her, MEGA didn't answer any of her prayers; they simply emptied out her wallet.

In 2006, her skin cancer returned. The cost of removal was nearly $4,000. However, she had MEGA insurance and assumed she'd be covered. She submitted her claim and waited for her check. It came, but was a bit less than she had hoped. Actually, a lot less; MEGA only covered $150 of her claim. A month later, the company raised her premium to a whopping $619 per month.

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Even after the huge increase and measly $150 claim payment, the woman said that she will keep her MEGA policy in case her health declines and MEGA doesn't pay again. In that case, she said she'll sue the company along with the countless others currently doing exactly that.

Countless other claims

MEGA, who generally markets its products to self employed individuals, has had countless lawsuits filed against it by individuals, groups and state insurance commissioners. The carrier has had fines issued against it by seven states and 36 other states are currently investigating the company's practices.

The company was recently fined $500,000 by the state of Delaware for its insurance practices in the state. MEGA has said that it would clean up its act in Delaware. However, the company said the same thing in California a few years ago and, judging from the account mentioned above, it doesn't seem like much progress has been made. MEGA and its sister company, Mid-West National, do business with their parent company, HealthMarkets.

Don't wait

If you've been denied a valid insurance claim by MEGA – don't wait. Contact an attorney whose practice focuses in bad faith insurance litigation to discuss your situation.

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