Question:
I would like to get any advice on getting insurance without employment.

I have a friend who is desperate need of wls. He is 408 pounds. He just recently relocated back to GA from MI. He was "squeezed" out of his job, but we both know it was because of his size. He now is having trouble finding another job because we again think is the same problem. He is a very intelligent person, he is a computer analysyt for the automotive industry. Is there a way he can obtain some sort of assistance or temporary insurance to pay for the surgery? We would appreciate any "positive" answers or suggestions. Thank you....    — francine J. (posted on August 17, 2002)

August 17, 2002
I would think Vocational Rehab would be perfect for him, that is what they do. I don't know how the laws are in Georgia, but its worth a try. Good luck to him.
   — thumpiez

August 17, 2002
Our local Blue Cross Blue Shield Company has individual policies that you can purchase. Not sure on the premiums but may be worth a phone call.
   — Jeana S.

August 17, 2002
If he was insured at a his previous job didn't they offer him COBRA (where you continue to pay for your insurance yourself so that you can maintain your insurance until new employment is found and you're eligible for insurance)? I'm not any expert at all but think that you can continue to use COBRA to maintain your insurance for up to a year. If he has that option it wouldn't be any more expensive to maintain his coverage than it would be to begin an individual policy. I'm not familiar with your state but here I found it impossible to obtain a descent policy, let alone one that would cover WLS. (by the way I was 29 and about 324 pounds) And the costs for the substandard policies were still very high.
   — Shelly S.