Ten Tips When You Lose Your Health Insurance

Economic times are tough and many are facing layoffs. Many employees are being told that their employer will be eliminating or reducing health benefits. As a result, many people are losing their health insurance coverage. Legislation is currently being proposed that can help those without health insurance obtain individual health insurance policies.

1. Use COBRA if You Are Laid Off - If you get laid off from your job and need health insurance you can Use COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation). COBRA is available for 18 months after loosing your employer sponsored health coverage. COBRA allows you to keep the health plan that your employer used to provide - as long as that plan still exists. If your employer is still in business and offering some health insurance to current employees you are able to qualify. COBRA will be more expensive than the premiums deducted from your paycheck but this is sometimes necessary if you are unable to get health care elsewhere. COBRA is often cheaper than private and individual health insurance plans, so it is important to explore this option.

2. Continue Preventative Measures - Without health insurance it is now more important than ever to live a healthy lifestyle. Use preventative measures such as regulating weight, exercising, eating healthy, lowering your cholesterol, and reducing stress from your life. When possible you can resume other preventative measures such as regular checkups and diabetes & cancer screenings.

3. Ask Your Doctor for Help - Ask your doctor about reduced fees or treatment and drug options for those with lower income or no health insurance. Your doctor may also be able to recommend a health care discount card that they accept while you are under or uninsured.

4. Decrease Stress - Stress has a poor effect on your body and your health. Make sure to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, and actively use relaxation techniques such as yoga.

5. Not Smoking - By not smoking you increase your chances of being approved for another health insurance plan including private and individual health insurance plans at reduced cost. Non-smokers receive much lower health insurance premiums and have less risk of overall health problems.

6. Apply for Medicaid - Almost every state has a local Medicaid office and toll-free numbers. Visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services web site for information on how to apply.  Each state is different but Medicaid allows low-income and eligible people to qualify to have their medical bills paid directly. Some still require co-payments, but at much reduced rates.

7. Apply for Medicare - Medicare is available only for those 65 years of age or older who meet special criteria. You can contact your local Social Security office or the main office at 1-800-772-1213. You are allowed to apply 3 months before reaching 65 years of age.

8. Alternative Natural Treatments - Alternative Medicine is currently used by thirty eight percent of adults in the United States. Acupuncture and herbal remedies are often cheaper than expensive prescriptions or medical treatments and can provide similar results, with less side effects.

9. Get Health Insurance through Spouse or Partner - Your spouse or partner may have a health insurance plan where you can qualify as a dependent. Although the cost can be high this typically results in fewer coverage rejections than when applying for private or independent health insurance coverage.

10. Take a Lower Paying Job For Better Health Insurance - Consider taking a lower paying job for health benefits. It may mean taking a large pay cut, extra searching for a job with good health benefits, or asking more questions during a job interview. There are some employers out there that pay low salaries but offer a great health insurance plans. Make sure to ask about waiting periods and how and when coverage begins.