Since late last summer, thousands across america have begun to lose their Cobra subsidy which was provided to them for 15 months through various government passed legislation over the past couple years.  Most individuals and families have never shopped for their own health insurance policy in their entire lives because they always got it through their employer who did the choosing.

Now, you can do it on your own, or save time and money by seeking a professional.  I, of course, recommend that you contact a local independent health insurance agent, who brokers all insurance companies, and who basically does the shopping for you.  This local advice and consultation comes for free, as the agent only gets paid a commission if they get you approved for a plan that you want, at the price you need.

Health care reform has made shopping for health insurance even more difficult, and creates even more need for a health agent.  Also, until 2014 when guaranteed issue starts (pre-existing conditions won’t matter), underwriting will still be the major determinant of an agents’ success in getting you approved.

If you cannot get approved, you will have to stay on the Cobra plan for the full 18 months, and then apply for a “guaranteed issue”/”HIPAA Portability Conversion” plan offered in most states, and at increased rates.  Otherwise, depending on the health conditions, you may want to consider a short term health insurance plan.  Once declined somewhere, you are ineligible for a short term plan and you’ve just reduced one of your cheaper options.  A good agent will warn you of a possible decline, and provide the alternatives.