How soon after getting new health insurance is it appropriate to see a doctor?

Just turned 26 and working on finding health insurance (I was declined coverage by the first company because they didn’t like that I had hernia surgery last year, and because I saw a cardiologist).

I have some appointments coming up for other things later this year. My dentist wants me to get a sleep study to rule out any sleep apnea concerns. I need to get some vaccines updated. I considered seeing a neurologist because I’ve had on and off again headaches but then again it could just be stress related? I don’t know and I’m worried about getting denied coverage again so I’m considering just holding off on the neurology as it’s hopefully not needed.

I also have some follow up appointments later this year with my surgeon and cardiology (lost a lot of weight and got checked out for tachycardia, all was perfect except for 1% PACS/PVCS which my doctor said was totally normal for someone my age yet the insurance denied me anyway).

I’m concerned about my new health insurance getting annoyed at me for booking so many appointments right off the bat. Is that a problem or do they expect it? Any advice for health insurance shopping? I don’t really understand what I should be looking for. And now I’m afraid of getting medical attention in the future because I don’t want to look bad to insurance companies, as if it’s a crime to see my doctor.

I know now to look at healthcare.gov but how do you pick a good company and plan from there?

submitted by /u/turquoiseanswers
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