Post-Divorce Health Insurance Options

Most health insurance policies in the U.S., whether employer provided, purchased directly or found through other avenues, only permit coverage for dependent spouses under certain circumstances.  Divorce often makes it impossible to continue coverage for the dependent spouse. For instance, health insurance provided through one spouse’s employer for a dependent spouse will often terminate in the event of a divorce.  Thus, the spouse facing a divorce should explore all available health insurance options.
Below are common post-divorce health insurance options:
1. Alternate Employer Provided Health Insurance is the easiest, and usually, the best option, if available.  Employer provided coverage is typically subsidized by the employer, making it less expensive than private health insurance in most cases.
2. COBRA Coverage entitles the dependent spouse to continue employer provided health insurance coverage with the same insurer for up to 36 months, until remarriage or eligibility for another insurance plan. Although COBRA is typically more expensive than private health insurance, it can prevent a gap in coverage until more advantageous health insurance is found.
3. Private Health Insurance may be purchased directly from an insurance company or through an ACA exchange if available.  In California, the ACA exchange, known as Covered California, offers several plan options including government subsidies to those who qualify.
4. Medicare is available to all U.S. citizens age 65 or older.  Medicare Part A provides basic hospitalization benefits, without a premium.  Medicare Part B provides for routine medical care, and  Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs but both include a premium.  Additionally, none of the aforementioned provide 100% coverage, so additional plans, such as Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage should also be considered.
All available health care options should be reviewed with an Attorney early on so affected individuals can do the necessary research and make an informed health coverage decision.  Further, an Attorney can assist in disclosing the cost of future health insurance coverage to the Court, so this cost can be factored into the final spousal support ruling. Regardless of the healthcare option selected, a qualified Family Law Attorney can help you navigate through the process and advocate for your best interests.
For more information on family law matters contact The Reape-Rickett Law Firm at 661-288-1000.