Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Texas Health Insurance Alternates

By Jordan FeRoss

If you are like many people in this tough economy, you may find yourself without a job but you do not need to lose your health insurance in Texas. However, it will cost considerably more as you will need to pay the entire premium without any of the cost being covered by your employer. This coverage is guaranteed to all employees covered by a group plan through COBRA or Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. This federally-mandated insurance program allows people to avoid lapses in their insurance while they look for a new job.

The employee's policy remains as it did while they were included in the employer's group plan with the same benefits and levels of coverage. The primary difference is that, under COBRA, the employee must pay the full premium without employer assistance. COBRA protects both the recently unemployed and their families from the risks of being uninsured during this difficult time. COBRA will remain effective for 18 months for the individual and 36 months for spouses and dependents. Being without a job does not mean you need to be without health insurance in Texas.

Insured persons are eligible for COBRA when they leave the employment of a company with more than 20 employees. If the employee is on disability and gets Medicare their spouse and children may still qualify for COBRA coverage. You must choose to extend your health care coverage with COBRA within 60 days of leaving your job or you will forfeit these benefits entirely. Those that opt for this health insurance in Texas will pay the entire insurance premium along with any additional fees.

Continuing your HMO health insurance coverage is an option when you choose COBRA after terminating your employment. You must check your policy and be sure to use only the doctors in your network or you may only get emergency treatment covered.

Texas has a law about health insurance coverage that calls for a continuance period which is usually about 6 months. This continuance period begins after the COBRA coverage ends. If you are eligible for the continuance, but prefer COBRA your coverage may last for up to 2 years.

According to Texas law most health insurance carriers must allow for a group continuance period for people who no longer qualify for the other plan. This applies to people who should have been covered under the group plan. When using this health insurance in Texas, the group insurance coverage continues as long as payment is made on time.

There are other options for people who lose their jobs and want to continue their health insurance in Texas without using COBRA. For those with pre-existing conditions, for example, can choose to be covered by Texas' Health Pool. The Health Pool provides insurance to those with pre-existing conditions who cannot get it through a traditional insurer but offers limited benefits at a steep price. Government insurance programs such as Medicare and Medicaid are also options. For most, however, COBRA will prove to be the best option. If you need additional information, you can talk to a social worker or other professional to get your questions answered and find the plan that is best for you. - 15246

About the Author: