losing insurance

dtrofgrace
dtrofgrace Member Posts: 9
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I lost my insurance because of divorce (I had just completed treatment for breast cancer). I found group insurance that would cover me, but I recently got word that the insurance company is cancelling the policy. I can't find any other insurance that will take me. I would consider moving to another state if there are more favorable laws to protect cancer survivors. Any suggestions?

Comments

  • bunnie
    bunnie Member Posts: 233
    #2
    Hi sorry to hear that.Iamn not sure what state you live in but we have a thing called cobra where for a certain amount of time you can pay for the insurance on your own that you had previsouly until you can get on a new insurance plan that way the insuranc dont conceder the cancer prexsting i dont know if you plan on going to work or not where you will eventually have your own insuracne.this is just a thought.please keep us posted bunnie.
  • epgnyc
    epgnyc Member Posts: 137
    #3
    I work in HR and am sure you can get coverage under the Federal law COBRA. It applies to any company of 20 or more and even if your spouse's company was smaller, usually there are similar state laws that apply. COBRA would give you 60 days from the date of your divorce to decide whether to take COBRA insurance under your former spouse's plan. You would pay fully for your own insurance under this plan and you could stay on it for up to 18 months. You need to contact your former spouse's employer...this is an important protection available to you! Good luck.
  • newboobs
    newboobs Member Posts: 121
    #4
    try www.helpingpatients.org. Good Luck!
  • mc2001
    mc2001 Member Posts: 343
    #5
    This situation is actually more common that people think. Find out the conditions of state ddisability, Supplemental Security Income, and other state benefits offered to disabled people. Ask your doctor if you can be placed on temporary disability in the time being.
    -Michael
  • nancyeob
    nancyeob Member Posts: 19
    #6
    Did you think of applying for Medicare or Medicaid? I had already had my surgery and radiation and chemo when a friend suggested trying to get on Medicare. Most people say it's hard to be approved but I got it first try. When my husband lost his job and insurance, much later, I went to our local Medicaid office. I got that and even a month of food stamps, they are not stamps anymore, they work like a credit card. Everyone I dealt with was exceptionally nice and made you feel very comfortable. I think it's worth a shot, you have nothing to lose.
    Good luck, Nancy

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