Continuation of COBRA beyone 18 months.

[Guest DaveStover]

What are my rights to continue health insurance after the 18 month coverage of COBRA? My current job does not offer group insurance. I was layed off in March 1998 and was never informed of being on a COBRA plan. I was able to continue group coverage (paid by me) from the layed off company, but it stated that this was employee continuation health insurance coverage. On April 20, 2001 the insurance notified me that they made a mistake and my COBRA should have ended on Jan 1, 1999. The insurance company is only giving me 30 days notice and will end COBRA coverage on June 1, 2001. What are my alternatives to either extend coverage or find another provider by June 1st?

[Bill Ecklund]

The laws of some states require a insurance company that is providing group medical coverage to offer a conversion policy when COBRA coverage runs out. You should check with the insurance commissioner of your state to find out if such a law exists in your state. In addition some states offer a state sponsored health insurance program for those that don't qualify otherwise for insurance. Again you should check with the insurance commissioner of your state.