because (correct me if I got this wrong) a new job with a new insurance policy meant that all (chronic) diseases you may have had in the past would no

because (correct me if I got this wrong) a new job with a new insurance policy meant that all (chronic) diseases you may have had in the past would not be covered by your new policy. You did get this wrong. By law Insurance companies cannot refuse you coverage for preexisting conditions if you previously had coverage. Just switching plans couldn't lose you that coverage. Also the US does not force people to purchase their health insurance through their employer. You are free to get it elsewhere but usually getting it through your employer works out to be a better deal.