Before enrolling in the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, Kim had no health insurance because she and her husband were self-employed and could not afford coverage. She went to the doctor for a bone spur, and she was told that she had to have a fusion which would cost at least $100,000. While the hospital was helping her figure out options, she learned that she might qualify for the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan. The day applications for the plan became available, state officials in New Mexico contacted Kim and encouraged her to apply. She was accepted into the pool on August 1st and is now able to receive treatment for her condition.