Wow... I now have *NO* health insurance!

[CostumeMistress]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 8:38pm

Okay, two weeks ago, I joined the ranks of a growing group of Americans - the uninsured. Because my father got a new job, and his company only offers insurance to over-18 children if they are full-time students, I (a part-time student) have no health insurance.

I don't have the finances to become a full-time student unless I were to switch schools, which I am not willing to do. I've looked into obtaining private insurance but it's extremely expensive. I work 40 hours per week at my job but since it's a job through the university, they don't offer me an insurance package because to them, I'm a student. Obtaining another full time job with the same pay scale would require me to get a car - something I can't afford. (Scream!) I feel sort of screwed. Has anyone been in this situation? (PMs are welcome if you don't want to post your financial situation for the world to see...) I am desperately in need of advice.

[Rathnait62]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 8:43pm

Wear a surgical mask and bubble wrap at all times, and you should be fine.

[CostumeMistress]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 8:44pm

You send the bubble wrap, I'll send you photos.

[KelRel]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 8:45pm

See if your university offers a student health program. They often offer highly discounted insureance plans.

[stonewall2]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 9:26pm

Just an ideas that might be of some help-
Do you have a local "Chamber of Commerce"? They quite often have health insurance plans that you can buy into at lower "group rates".

[Millie42]

Posted: 6/30/05 at 10:35pm

Yea, I have had times in the past where with my father's unemployment robbed me of my insurance. I second the idea of checking out your school's plan.
I am not covered by my work at the moment since I am a temporary employee and we found out that my father's new insurance "doesn't cover office visits."
So, in other words, I am golden if I lose a limb or get hit by a bus...but not much else.

[grizzabella]

Posted: 7/1/05 at 4:16pm

You've hit on one of the crimes of our time, that health care in this country is a privilege, not a right. Anyway, I don't know how close you are to graduation, but check with an independent insurance agent. Sometimes there are "temporary" coverage packages at discount rates that usually run 6 months, but which can be renewed two or three times. It might tide you over. Best of luck.

[WindyCityActor]

Posted: 7/2/05 at 8:12am

Oh, hon....you've got to find something...it's to much of a gamble. I did a play with a guy...and he got sick...had to be hospitalized....no insurance....he went into debt to the tune of over $10,000.

And now those lovely bankruptcy laws....