Anyone approved for Ins. while on COBRA?

I may be asking the impossible, but it's all I have at the moment.  I tried to get independant insurance and was flat out denied based on weight. 

So in less than a year I will have nothing since I am self employed. 

Has anyone had success on COBRA? 

Many thanks!

If you are currently on Cobra, you shouldn't have a problem.  If your previous employer covers WLS under your policy, you should be fine.  All Cobra is, is the same policy you had, but you have to cover all the premiums (plus up to 2% for administrative fees) vs your employer covering part/all of your insurance premiums.

I agree with the previous poster.  COBRA is the same coverages as if you were still working so if it is not excluded under your policy and you otherwise qualify, you should have no problem.

Thanks for the info!

Strange enough... YES - Cobra will cover!!  My antie was recently laid off while attempting to complete her 6 month pre op diet program.   She now has Cobra and found out she not only doesn't havve to complete the 6 month program but she can have the surgery as soon as her surgeon can get her in!  How fantastic is that? 

Best....

That is great news for her! Thanks for the info.  I was worried that since they know you are only a member for 18 months max there is more incentive to reject you since there is no long term savings to the insurance company necessarily. 

Thanks!

I'm in the process of trying to find new insurance for when I turn 23 next month and get kicked off of my parent's policy, and I've been doing a LOT of research.... maybe I can help? :)

The good news is..... HIPAA.

When your COBRA coverage runs out.... you are eligible for insurance portability through HIPAA.

Basically, this means that you CAN get on an individual insurance plan.... and they CANNOT (under Federal Law) rider out any pre-existing conditions or health problems.

The BAD news is... they'll charge you more because of it.

So basically, you'll get guaranteed health coverage.... but it's going to cost you more.

However******

If you can get down to a healthy weight and maintain it for a few years (while carrying "credible" insurance coverage)..... you shouldn't have any problem getting onto a different (ie. regular priced) insurance plan... probably with a different company. It varies from company to company, but generally you have to be "healthy" for 6 months to 5 years in order for whatever medical problems you previously had to not be ridered out (since you will no longer have portability/guarantee issue)

I hope that makes sense. Good luck!!! :)