Extending Health Insurance Coverage

One of the major concerns in this economy is losing one’s job - and subsequent health insurance coverage. There are some federal programs that may help:

“…Federally supervised continuation coverage, “COBRA”

This coverage is available to any person whose former employer has twenty or more workers. It allows the dislocated worker to temporarily remain in a employer sponsored health plan, but with the participant covering the entire cost.”

link: Health insurance options after job loss

One step that might be investigated is to enquire whether the present work plan allows for an extended coverage. This would mean that, in case of a job cut-back, there is a period of full medical coverage. The plans may vary with the insurance carrier and there is an added premium. However, in this shaky economy, this may be a worthwhile investment - just in case.

Catherine Forsythe