It seems that insurance is a four letter word in our country these days. Americans are trying to find ways they can afford health care costs and still maintain lower premiums individually and for their families. With the government proposing that all individuals must have health insurance, what will this mean for the typical family? What about the families that may not be typical according to our standard definition. Many are trying to figure out how domestic partnership fits into the confines of insurance premiums and what exactly their rights are as a partner.
Traditional Marriage Versus Domestic Partnership
Since it can be expensive to get health insurance these days, many couples are lining up to share the costs with their spouse. Many companies now offer spouses the option to join under their names. However, make no mistake about it, private companies do not have to provide health care benefits nor do they have to extend the offer to spouses. In the past whenever companies were offering insurance, it was specifically to a married couple. Now the country is starting to recognize domestic partnership more and more. That being said, benefits still do not have to be extended to domestic partners either. If a company does offer a partner or a spouse benefits, then they must comply with federal and state laws. Very few states actually have laws recognizing same sex unions right now, therefore insurance companies do not have to either.
Domestic Partnership Insurance Rights
When looking at domestic partnership benefits and rights, it is important to understand that insurance companies now look at both heterosexual and homosexual couples. Originally insurance companies changed their married spouse-only viewpoint to include same sex couples as the times changed. Now we are seeing another shift, people are waiting longer to get married, if they are choosing to get married at all. So just because you are not married to someone, no matter what your preference is, does that mean that you do not deserve some medical insurance rights?
No, insurance companies are now starting to include all societal lifestyles that are occurring. So what are insurance companies looking for when determining what a domestic partnership is? Though it can be confusing, it no longer can deal with sex. Now companies are looking at whether a couple is in a committed relationship, if they live together, and even if they share financial responsibilities. If you have questions, it is always best to check with your employer. Find out if they offer coverage for traditional couples, same sex couples, or domestic partnership. Since they have to follow the state law, make sure you understand how domestic partnership is defined in your state.
Domestic Partnership Medical Rights
What if your spouse was hurt and needed medical attention? You have been with them for years and now a doctor is telling you that you cannot medically sign any documents for them nor can you make decisions. You cannot get mad at the doctor. This use to be how things worked in our society. Only family or next of kin were allowed to visit the sick or make the decisions. Now things are starting to change. With the rise of same-sex couples and those who simply do not want to marry, the parameters are a little different. Still, you have to know what your rights are as a domestic partner. These rules vary from state to state and may even involve you filling out forms. Though they may be a hassle they will allow you to have governmental support when it comes to visiting your loved one or providing them support.
