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More Information on Individual Insurance

I'm getting a divorce / separating* from my partner and do not currently have a job with insurance coverage. What are my health insurance options?

If your ex-spouse has employer group health insurance and you are enrolled in that plan, you may have the right to continue group coverage through COBRA.

Another option: you could convert the group coverage to an individual policy offered by the same insurance company that fully insures your ex-spouse's / ex-partner's group.

* Neither same-sex or different-sex domestic partners are eligible for COBRA.

I have never had health insurance and I would like to purchase it. What are my options?

You can purchase insurance through:

• Your employer, if health insurance coverage is offered to employees and their families
• A private carrier for an individual policy on your own
• Professional associations

I just found out I'm pregnant. Can I get health insurance?

If you apply for individual coverage after becoming pregnant -- and the policy is subject to medical underwriting -- your application will likely be rejected. This is because the insurance company regards the pregnancy as a pre-existing condition.

If you have an employer plan that includes maternity beneits, see page 13.

If you're eligible, open enrollment may also be an option.

I'm 50 years old and have been diagnosed with a disability. My employer does not provide health insurance. Can I qualify for Medicare?

In addition to people who are age 65 and older, Medicare covers people with certain disabilities who are not yet age 65. To ind out if you are eligible:

• Call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov
• For further assistance, call OSHIIP at the Ohio Department of Insurance: 1-800-686-1578

I've checked out the premiums and I truly cannot afford health insurance right now. What else can I do?

You may want to consider applying for financial assistance. One possible option is Ohio's Medicaid program.

Medicaid provides basic health care services for people with limited incomes and children or disabilities. The Ohio Department of Job & Family Services administers Medicaid. Call your local county Department of Job & Family Services or call the Ohio Medicaid hotline to apply: 1-800-324-8680.