A pre-existing condition could be any health issue you had before your insurance coverage began. It could be something as common as allergies to a very serious health problem, such as cancer. In the past, even being a victim of domestic violence has been classified as a “pre-existing condition.” Before the new health care law, insurance companies could refuse to cover any costs associated with a pre-existing condition, charge you more, or refuse to sell you a policy altogether. Now, all insurance companies are required to cover you even if you have a pre-existing condition, and cannot charge you more because of the condition.