Washington State High Risk Pool

The Washington State Health Insurance Pool (WSHIP) provides health insurance coverage to people denied health insurance in the individual market. The underwriting in the private market is designed so 8% of people are denied coverage and are thus eligible for WSHIP.

An underwriting form called the “Standard Health Questionnaire (SHQ)” is used by insurance carriers in Washington to evaluate the health of applicants. Please note this form is for informational purposes only and cannot be completed and sent to WSHIP. You can also see how carriers score the SHQ.

By law WSHIP rates cannot be more than 10-25% higher than the rates of a comparable plan in the private market. Because WSHIP plans typically offer more comprehensive coverage than any plans found in the private market, WSHIP premium can appear more expensive.

WSHIP is currently funded by subscriber premiums and insurance carrier assessments. Insurance carriers are assessed based on market share for all costs above the premium collected from subscribers. Please read the “2009 Annual Report Washington State Health Insurance Pool,” or view the WSHIP website to learn more.