What happens if your deductible changes in the middle of the benefit period?

Hello, at the beginning of the year my health insurance plan had a $500 deductible with a $2000 out-of-pocket limit. I had surgery in January and maxed out my deductible and out of pocket limit (meaning I paid 500+2000). However, as of July 1 when my company changed insurance plans, my deductible went up to $1500 and maintained a $2000 out of pocket limit. Now, my insurance company says that I haven't met the $1500 deductible; i have only paid $500 towards that benefit category (meaning the deductible) and $2000 towards the out of pocket benefit category. So, they want me to pay in full (towards the remaining deductible of $1000, $1500-500=1000) before they pay anything. Is this correct?

How can it be that I have maxed out my out of pocket before meeting my deductible? Shouldn't $1500 of the money I paid in January max out my current deductible and the remaining $1000 ($2500-$1500) apply towards my out-of-pocket? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

[Amir Mostafaie]

Dear abelen,

Most Health Insurance plan deductibles apply to the Calendar year for the policy/plan in which you are enrolled. In your case it sounds like your employer decided to "cancel" one policy and start a whole new one; in which case the deductible you met was for the plan that is no longer in effect.

The new plan will have its own deductible, co-pays, co-insurance & other forms of cost share. In other words you have a new plan with a new deductible that has not been met!  

Sincerely,

Amir Mostafaie