Nov 1, 2010 12:58PM Mountains1day wrote:

I would be interested to know what options are out there for people w/preexisting conditions, laid off, middle aged and need insurance desperately.  Cobra is only good for 18 months if you can afford it, then what?  Most states have programs that offer coverage but, certain criteria have to met:  1. income level  2. without insurance for at least 6 months  3. Prove you've been denied coverage.  In my state of Florida, I was told, once I meet this criteria, a policy will cost me over $1,000 per month!  We are told not to have a lapse in coverage and on the other hand, we must be without coverage for 6 months, what gives?  Not great options, thanks to federal/state government, I can not afford and may have to do without cancer treatment.  Medicare is over a decade away for me and I'm not trusting this current administrations health care reform as it has done nothing for people like me thus far.   

Nov 1, 2010 01:20PM lago wrote:

It is cheaper for her to go on cobra even at $400. When our cobra runs out the high rise pool in our state is going to cost us $700 a month per person! Also contact the American Cancer Society. They have social workers there that can help her with options.

So frustrating to think that in just 3 years she would be on medicare.

Nov 1, 2010 02:37PM dlb823 wrote:

amanet, you or your Mother may want to check with this program:

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/

I know they pay for breast cancer screening -- not sure what else -- but they probably know the ins & outs of getting coverage and/or treatment without adequate coverage in your state.    Deanna

Nov 3, 2010 09:56AM Shrek4 wrote:

I think it depends on the state. I was on Cobra (BCBS) for quite a while before I got diagnosed, and with a low income, the $400+ a month was a hassle, then I realized I couldnt' pay that AND the co-pay. Oklahoma has a special program for women on low income with breast cancer, the only qualification besides the breast cancer is the low income. It's a type of Medicare. I agree with the other ladies, try and call the American Cancer society. They are really good in finding options for you.