Steps to Take If You Lose Your Health Insurance
- rebeccabloom67
- Jul 6
- 2 min read
I care about women who are scared about losing their health insurance. At a moment when panic feels like the default there is usually a plan B, Plan C and Plan D-- methodical, analytical steps you can take by asking and answering some questions. And here they are:
1. Are you on a group plan? Then perhaps you are eligible for COBRA. It might be expensive, but it’s there.
2. Are you on a state or federally subsidized plan like Medicaid? Then you might be eligible for other subsidies through your state marketplace. Even if you have more copayments that phase in over time.
3. Do you belong to any groups that have group health insurance available? Look into it. And if you are partnered, look into that.
4. Are you a freelancer who could join other freelancers to create a group and get a policy that way? Before the ACA passed, this was an approach that often worked for people.
5. Are you in active treatment? You might be able to ask your doctors about continuity of care until that treatment is completed.
6. Are you disabled? If you are, this can lead to other pathways to coverage. Even if it takes time, there may be interim coverage you can find in the meantime.
These are a few basic questions to go over with your advisors, friends, and anyone else available to help you.
Your state marketplace will be able to match you with available policies depending on your situation. Be sure to check in with your doctors and try to coordinate with them about which policies they will accept first. That’s a wiser way than just taking the most affordable or quickly available plan.
As you try to avoid gaps in coverage, note that many plans will go back to the beginning of the month in which you become covered. If you must reschedule appointments, let the doctors know what you’re dealing with. Most of their offices have seen this before.
The bottom line is try not to panic. Losing health insurance coverage is stressful, of course. Staying cool-headed and connecting with experts quickly is the best way to proceed towards a solution.
