Help!!! I am about to lose my insurance!

[Behind the Aegis]

I have been unemployed for almost 17 months and have been using COBRA. That coverage will end on December 31st, 2004. I have looked at the COBRA site and it confused me even more. I will need coverage because, if my family luck holds, something will happen to me if I have no insurance! I have always had coverage through work or my parents, so I get pretty good rates. I am just afraid that if I Have to get "private" insurance, I will be screwed! I am in pretty good health, rarely sick (usually only lasts a few days, if that), but I do smoke (no need to comment on that, I have a Jewish mother and aunt to hound me about my smoking!!!!). I also have not had a physical in almost 15 years, so I have no idea if there is something "hidden" there. What should I do? Can I get a company to carry over my COBRA at different rates?

I am sure most people will think this is a stupid question, but I really don't know what to do. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

[still_one]

1. HIPPA

It is expensive, but you won't have to worry about pre-existing conditions

[Behind the Aegis]

3. Thanks!

Money is a BIG issue now because I have no job, but I will look into it! I hadn't even thought to check that one out!

[Bluebear]

5. HIPAA is a program though not a company, right?

Where would poster go to find the insurance?

[Robbien]

2. You could check on-line

there are sites to get insurance quotes from different companies. It will give you a starting point.

A good site for comparison quotes is:
http://www.ehealthinsurance.com/ehi/index.html

[Behind the Aegis]

4. Another thank you!

I have looked at a few comparative places, but most will require a pre-screening and that scares me a little. I am sure I am OK, but if something were to be discovered, then I would find out I have something serious and have no insurance. I know it sounds paranoid, I get it from mom! :)

[Robbien]

6. Have you called the insurance company

you presently have under Cobra? Deal with them directly and ask about continuing coverage with them on your own. Since they have history with you they may not require a medical.

[Behind the Aegis]

7. DING! DING! DING!

I feel like an idiot! I didn't even think to do that!! It is local to Oklahoma, but since I am still here that might not be a bad idea! THANK YOU!!!! You have no idea what kind of weight just lifted off me. I know I will still see how it goes, but to have an option right now is a great thing! THANKS!!!

Brightest Blessings!