Crucial conversations about mental health and mental healthcare, from a faith perspective. Emerging from David Finnegan-Hosey’s personal experience of living with a diagnosis deemed a “preexisting condition” by insurance companies, Grace is a Pre-existing Condition explores the theological and spiritual dimensions of our public discourse around mental healthcare and mental illness and finds there the transformative reality of grace. The author's insights will be of benefit to anyone concerned about creating a more just healthcare system, but particularly those who struggle with–and care for those who struggle with–mental health. Though focusing on mental health, including preexisting conditions and medical debt, his observations are equally applicable to people dealing with a variety of physical and chronic illnesses. While intentionally approaching the subject through the lens of Christian theology, this book is a contribution to a broader conversation about healthcare policy; a conversation which is likely to be in the spotlight in future political debates. Combining the accessibility of personal narrative with issues receiving attention on the national scale, Grace Is a Pre-existing Condition can begin vital and creative dialogues at a crucial time for the church and the country.

- Applicable not just to those with mental health issues, but for churches and the church at large

Unlike other developed countries, the United States does not have a universal health coverage system. Today, every American must purchase their health insurance, and most Americans get coverage through their employers. A good portion of the population, however, search directly private companies that offer different health insurance plans. The members of these private plans, and regular payments, sometimes also have to pay part of the cost of their treatment before the insurer reimburses all or part their medical expenses. The type of service, as well as the amount reimbursed, varies according to plan.

Healthcare costs in the form of premiums, hospital bills, and drug co-pays have all gone up dramatically over the past ten years and will continue to increase. So, what can you—as a financially conscious healthcare consumer—do to protect yourself? This book will help you understand the resources available to help you pay for care. It will also look at options for minimizing costs and advocating for yourself in the event that billing errors are made. Being an educated, proactive customer of the healthcare market will ease some of the stress and worry of seeking care and enable you to concentrate on your health.

This report provides the first-ever comparative analysis of the role and performance of private health insurance (PHI) in OECD countries.