“COBRA” stands for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
and is a Federal law passed in 1985. Basically, it gives most workers the
right to continue group health coverage for up to 18 months (and in some
cases more). Although it may seem expensive to you now, COBRA can be a very
beneficial option to some people who have lost their medical insurance due
to losing their job. If you have a pre-existing condition and are unable to
get insurance from other private insurers, COBRA may be your only medical
insurance alternative.
To learn more about COBRA click here:
“HIPAA” stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and is a Federal law passed in 1996. It provides protections for coverage under group health plans that limit exclusions for preexisting conditions; prohibit discrimination against employees and dependents based on their health status; and allow a special opportunity to enroll in a new plan to individuals in certain circumstances. HIPAA may also give you a right to purchase individual coverage if you have no group health plan coverage available, and have exhausted COBRA or other continuation coverage.
To learn more about HIPAA click here:
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