Question:
I will be resigning from my job in 2 weeks, how can I continue my care?

I will be giving my 2 weeks notice on Wednesday and resigning from my position. I will then be taking appx 1 month off until my daughter returns to school, and then I plan on hitting the pavement and getting another job. If all else fails, I will promptly go back to temping. I can't afford to Cobra my insurance, and I am worried about not being able to see my surgeon. I am 9 months post op and down 121 pounds. I hope to make an appointment to see my surgeon one last time before my insurance ends. I am having some slight health issues and I am worried about not having insurance. I am anemic (taking iron), I am B12 deficient (yes, taking sublingual), and my hair is falling out, which indicates a protein deficiency (I am trying hard to work on this one. It is very difficult). Any ideas on what to do about insurance???? My surgeon likes to see us monthly until we are stable with our weight loss. how long can I SAFELY go without seeing my surgeon???    — enjo4 (posted on July 9, 2001)

July 8, 2001
Erin, I haven't seen my surgeon in 9 months - since my three month check up. At that time, the only deficiency that was revealed was B-12 and he recommended pills. <p> Luckily, I'm feeling fabulous. But, I am very relieved that in a few weeks I'll finally have the health insurance I need to get my labs done again. <p> When you posted before, I had mentioned that temp agencies usually have cheap, basic insurance with very limited benefits. You'll need to start there. <p> Also, having had three jobs since November, 2000 (I also took the summer off and waited til I recovered from surgery to find a new job), I suggest that you do not wait a month to start looking. Start looking now! The economy is taking a dive, and jobs are becoming more competitive. Also, the hiring process may take a month or longer, so if you found that perfect job tomorrow, it may be September before you start bringing in income and getting benefits. <p> Erin, I've been blessed in that I'm very healthy and haven't really missed going to the follow up visits (as far as I know). However, I can tell you, that the way I looked for a job - which is similar to how you are looking - resulted in towering financial challenges for me. I wish you the best.
   — Allie B.

July 9, 2001
I think the best thing would be for you to make an appointment with your surgeon and discuss it with him. I'm sure you can work it out. Also, have your labs done one last time. For me, the surgeon's fee of $3,000 included all follow-up visits for a year, so I would think you have a few more months. Another thought---most cities have clinics for low-income folks. Could you call there and check on what you would have to do to have your labs run there? I'm not sure what is involved, but I'm sure your regular doc's office would know. Good luck!
   — Susan S.

July 9, 2001
You don't need to see your surgeon so often. Do you have a regular doc you can visit and bring up to date? My regular doc orders my blood tests. I've only seen my surgeon twice since surgery 15 months ago.
   — Cindy H.

July 10, 2001
Your current insurance company should offer you to continue your coverage through COBRA (Look that up!). You'll definately want to do this because if you don't, when you do go to another company and start insurance there and if there was a lapse of coverage they can get you on that "pre-existing condition" limitation. You will be mailed the insurance paperwork from your home after your insurance is terminated. I would ask your current employer the contact information you need in case you don't get it within like 15 days. You will be covered under the same plan you have with your company for up to 18 months as long as you pay. Be prepared, it's going to cost. My insurance at work was $24 a month. Now my COBRA premium is $158 per month. My employer paid the difference when I was an employee, but still, it is worth it. Good Luck.
   — Shannon M.