Cost issues dog new coverage program for uninsured people with pre-existing conditions

New coverage for uninsured people in poor health

WASHINGTON — The Obama administration is launching a special coverage program for uninsured Americans with medical problems this week.

But here’s the catch: Premiums will be a stretch for many, even after government subsidies to bring rates close to what healthier groups of people are charged.

And $5 billion that Congress allocated to the program through 2013 could run out well before that.

An administration official said the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan will begin accepting applications in many states on July 1, with coverage available as early as August 1. Consumers can check availability in their states on a new website, healthcare.gov, starting Thursday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity ahead of the administration’s announcement later this week.