I need family healthcare quick (Chesterfield: health insurance, broker, deductible)

[JamalStevens]

Hey all,

In July I was laid off from my Network Admin Job at a large ad firm. As part of my severance my health insurance for myself and my family was continued. However, it expires in two weeks. I looked at the cost of the Cobra and almost fainted. Can anyone recommend a good health insurance company that will work with my family's health conditions (nothing debilitating just some weight issues and my son has asthma)?

Thanks

[Kavin]

I have a firm in Chesterfield that specializes in health insurance for individuals and families. We work with all the best companies. Heres the website: www.gatewayquotes.com

Sorry to hear about the lay off. Keep your head up.

[aragx6]

Cobra is always expensive because it's really made for the uninsurable.

I had Assurant for a while. it was basic as hell, but at least if I got hurt, I'd be covered.

Good luck with everything!!!!

[wustu87]

When my previous company shut down back in 2001 we used Blue Cross Blue Shield's "Short Term" coverage for a few months which was less than a quarter the price of our ridiculously quoted COBRA price for our HMO at the time. BCBS had a variety of deductible amounts we could choose, and would have been there if something major had happened over the few months when we did not have employer provided coverage (luckily no major medical emergencies occurred). You can use their "Get A Quote" feature at:

Anthem Visitors

to check the many different options that Blue Cross can provide. Plus you know Blue Cross coverage is accepted just about everywhere.

[anr_black]

We used blue cross too a few years ago when we were in a similar situation. I called lots of companies, and they had the cheapest premiums. Bares bones, hit-by-a-bus insurance (which is what we had) is of course cheapest, but you'll pay more for full coverage.

[Kavin]

Be careful only looking at one carrier. In todays market there are numerous carriers with hundreds of options. Short term is a good option if you plan on getting back to work soon. The underwriting is slightly more strict so be sure you look at both short term and major medical options. A really good broker will be able to tell you what the probable outcomes will be with each carrier BEFORE you submit an application. Dont ever pay a broker any "Broker Fees"! Honest brokers wont charge you to act as your advisor. [mod cut]