General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsWhat happens when you can't pay your health insurance
I work at a thrift store in Florida. They will close when we are all dead. Idiots still have to shop . One of them said to me yesterday "how come you're the only store open ?" I responded "because our bosses don't care if we get sick." Obviously I'm not going to have my job much longer. I'm interested to know what happens when all our health insurance lapses. Spare us from interesting times.
The Velveteen Ocelot
(115,270 posts)I ran into that problem a few years ago, had to buy COBRA which was way more expensive than my employer-provided insurance, but I was able to get less comprehensive coverage for a manageable premium that I could use until I was eligible for Medicare. I don't know if that will work for you but it's something to look into.
still_one
(91,945 posts)expanding Medicaid can fill the gap...
.
Oh wait, the republicans insured that certain states would not allow Medicaid expansion
This election is so important on so many fronts
Brainfodder
(6,423 posts)Cobra is a sick joke, offered to you when your income drops to 0.
I remember it fondly, obviously.
The Velveteen Ocelot
(115,270 posts)I had to settle for basically minimal coverage to tide me over. I hope there are other options under the ACA.
Brainfodder
(6,423 posts)At least here in Nevada.
COBRA is really for folks who need health coverage due to something really awful and costly, usually big pharma drug costs, horrific illnesses, or special needs family member scenarios?
If you search, you can find the depressing stories, I suggest pass, we got enough horrors of own atm?
Good luck!
DrToast
(6,414 posts)The cost is the same. Its just that you have to pay for all of it.
Also, you can purchase a plan through ACA.
The Velveteen Ocelot
(115,270 posts)I have had to use it. It might not be feasible in this case.
DrToast
(6,414 posts)Its the same plan. It costs the same. Its just that your employer is no longer covering any of the cost.
The Velveteen Ocelot
(115,270 posts)which is what I did. But the ACA probably has better deals.
Hoyt
(54,770 posts)due to non-payment until further notice.
Not sure how that will impact employees who lose health insurance, but you do have Cobra as poster above mentions. Also, I suspect there will be chance to enroll in ACA. And, some patients might be able to get retroactive Medicaid if they have large healthcare expenses.
zackymilly
(2,375 posts)SWBTATTReg
(21,856 posts)msongs
(67,193 posts)Danmel
(4,892 posts)exchanges. You sign up before April 15, you will have coverage on April 1.
I believe other states that operate their exchanges have also done so.
I have heard chatter that the feds are considering it. As they simultaneously work to overturn the ACA and leave tems of millions without coverage in the time of plague.
jberryhill
(62,444 posts)Like anything else.
Ms. Toad
(33,915 posts)leaving your job creates an open enrollment period so you can get health insurance for free through the ACA marketplace.