Lay Offs Mean No Health Insurance
January 24, 2009 by Cherie Burbach
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
Here’s a scary thought: With all the lay offs happening these days workers are finding it increasingly difficult to keep their health insurance. That’s ESPECIALLY frightening for diabetics.
A survey over at CNN says that in 2007, “researchers found that two-thirds of workers, if they were laid off, would be eligible for COBRA. Data from 2006 data suggest that only 9 percent would opt into the program.”
Since costs are higher now, that problem is probably even more prevalent.
It’s difficult. I know one of my fears has always been that I wouldn’t have health insurance. I’ve stayed at jobs I hated because of that, and when offered COBRA I did spend the money for it even though money was tight.
Diabetics need insurance. The costs are outrageous and without it they could forgo treatment or testing – which would only make them sicker.
i’ve always been told that even if you lose your job it’s okay because your health insurance may be covered by cobra. man it freaked me out that it will cost more than i’ve ever made! there are many articles out there containing information on how to stay healthy and insured during these hard times.
Imee: Yes, if you lose your job you generally have the option of COBRA. What this article suggests, however, is that with these tough economic times, people are opting NOT to go with COBRA. The cost of COBRA IS outrageous. But diabetics need insurance. It’s really not an option for us.