Should I Use COBRA? I Have Arthritis

Hi everyone. I just quit my job, where I had a very nice PPO. I am now trying to choose between COBRA (which will cost me ~$500 a month for the PPO option) and private plans.

My initial research shows that the private plans will require a much lower monthly payment. The issue is that I am a 30 year old male with a chronic form of arthritis (seronegative spondyloarthropathy). It is currently in remission, but I fear any insurance company I go to will tack on a huge additional monthly fee.

Has anyone else faced this general situation? Any recommendations for how to think about this? I need insurance for the next few months until I find another gig, but I want to make sure I go with a good option.

Thank you!

[Amir Mostafaie]

Dear treysf,

First thing you need to do (if you haven't done so yet), is to find out the deadline of your COBRA election period. That way if you decide against an Individual plan (or don’t qualify for it) your plan B remains intact. This deadline is usually spelled out in your COBRA package.

Secondly depending on your state laws & the carriers/plans offered in your area, your pre-existing arthritis may impact your insurability in the individual market, so  I recommend that you talk to a licensed agent. A licensed agent can help you with the process of determining what impact if any your pre-existing condition may have on your insurability in addition to helping you find a plan that fits your needs.

Sincerely,

Amir Mostafaie