In the case of separated/divorced parents, what is the first rule to determine which insurance plan is filed first?

The first rule to determine which insurance plan is filed first in cases involving separated or divorced parents is based on the specific terms of any court order. This is crucial because court orders can dictate how healthcare costs should be managed between parents, including which parent’s insurance is to be considered primary.

In situations where parents have gone through legal proceedings, the court may outline specific directives regarding health insurance responsibility, which override standard procedures. Such terms could include identifying one parent as the responsible party for medical expenses or dictating the order of coverage based on each parent's financial obligations or resources.

This prioritization of court orders ensures compliance with legal agreements and offers clarity in navigating insurance claims, thus preventing disputes over which policy should be used for the child's healthcare.