Individual Coverage in Ohio

Coverage individuals can buy directly

If you cannot get health insurance through your employer (or your spouse's / partner's employer) or you're not employed, you may be able to buy health insurance coverage for yourself and your family. This is called individual coverage.

There are different avenues for buying individual coverage: through the individual private market, (temporary) COBRA or state continuation, (permanent) conversion, HIPAA-eligible, or state-sponsored insurance (Medicaid). If you change jobs or leave group coverage, you should know your rights to continue or convert the old coverage. Although the coverage can be costly, you are allowed by law to keep your family covered. See pages 16-19 for this important information.

An insurance agent can help you find appropriate insurance in the private insurance market, or you can call the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1526 with questions about your options.

Public health insurance plans

Depending on your situation, you may qualify for a government health insurance program, such as Medicaid or Medicare. If you can't afford health insurance, the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services -- the agency that administers Medicaid -- may be able to help. Call 1-800-324-8680.