When you sign up for a health insurance plan, you may think that it covers common illnesses and procedures.

However, did you know that your health contract may cover some uncommon and even unbelievable diseases? In this article, we will explore some of these diseases that your health insurance may cover, which you may never have heard of before.

Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP)

FOP is a rare and genetic disease that affects the body’s musculoskeletal system. It causes muscle tissue and connective tissue to turn into bone, making movement progressively more difficult and painful.

Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis and treatment of FOP, including medication management and physical therapy to manage symptoms.

Harlequin-Type Ichthyosis

Harlequin-type ichthyosis is an extremely rare and severe genetic disorder that affects the skin. Babies born with this condition have hard, thick skin that forms into diamond-shaped plates and fissures.

The condition can cause dehydration and infection and may result in death. Health insurance typically covers the management and treatment of this rare disease, including consultation with a dermatologist, wound care, and medication management.

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB)

EB is a rare and inherited condition that causes the skin to blister and tear easily. It is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the proteins that hold the skin’s layers together.

The condition can cause severe pain and scarring and can even lead to cancer. Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of EB, including wound care, medication management, and genetic testing.

Kuru

Kuru is a rare, fatal neurological disorder that was found in Papua New Guinea. It is caused by prion protein, which is found in contaminated human brain tissue, leading to brain deterioration and death.

Although rare, health insurance plans may offer coverage in exceptional circumstances where individuals may need treatment and healthcare resources to manage the condition.

Ebola

Ebola is a rare and deadly viral disease that affects humans and other primates. It is characterized by fever and severe bleeding and has led to outbreaks in Africa.

The diagnosis, treatment, and management of Ebola are typically covered by health insurance, although precise procedures vary by locality and healthcare provider.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

CF is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It causes a buildup of mucus in the lungs and other organs, leading to infections and difficulty breathing.

CF is incurable, but the symptoms can be managed with medication and therapy. Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of CF, including medication management, pulmonary therapy, and genetic testing.

Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s disease is a rare and inherited neurodegenerative disorder that causes progressive movement and cognitive impairments. There is no cure for the disease, but medication and therapy can help manage symptoms.

Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis and treatment of Huntington’s disease, including medication management and genetic testing.

Myotonic Dystrophy

Myotonic dystrophy is a rare and inherited condition that causes muscle weakness and atrophy. It can also affect the heart, eyes, and other organs.

The disease is progressive and currently incurable, but medical care and occupational therapy can help manage symptoms. Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of myotonic dystrophy, including genetic testing and medication management.

Congenital Insensitivity to Pain

Congenital Insensitivity to Pain is a rare genetic condition that causes individuals to have a lack of sensation to pain or temperature.

Although individuals with the disease can not feel pain, they are still susceptible to injuries that can cause broken bones and infections. Health insurance plans may offer coverage for imaging to monitor bone health and consultation with genetic specialists.

Porphyria

Porphyria is an inherited disorder that affects the production of heme in the body. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include photosensitivity, nerve damage, and abdominal pain.

Treatment may include medication and avoiding exposure to sunlight and other environmental triggers. Health insurance typically covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of porphyria, including medication management and genetic testing.

Conclusion

Although some of these diseases may seem rare and even unbelievable, health insurance can provide coverage for their diagnosis, treatment, and management.

If you are uncertain about your health insurance plan’s coverage, it’s always best to speak to your healthcare provider or insurance representative to better understand what your plan entails and how you can best manage your healthcare needs.