Health Insurance Help Please!

[Groovecenter]

Hey all, I just graduated from SUNY University at Buffalo, and am in that stage between graduation and finding a job where I need health insurance in New York City.

From my research, it seems as if short term health insurance is my best option. That being said, I wanted some information and opinions from others.

Any recommendations as to what kind of coverage I should be getting?

I rarely visit the doctor, have relatively new glasses, and am in generally good health. I am, however, a hemophiliac, so not having coverage is not an option.

What would the cheapest option be? I don't really need vision or dental, and since I rarely get sick enough to require prescription meds, a high deductible is okay with me, as long as monthly payments are low. Also, if anyone has any recommendations for a reliable provider that fits the criteria put forth, that would be even better, because cheap coverage is great, but if I actually do end up needing it, I'd want it to be solidly reliable as well.

Any help that anyone can provide, even if it's just a story of what you did after school, or how you deal/dealt with health insurance would be a big help. Thank you.

[Pilgrim]

Perhaps an conversation with an independent insurance agent? I dunno....

[stedtale]

look into COBRA

[unclekebm]

eat healthy, exercise and save lot's of money or precious metals...

[Groovecenter]

My parents looked into COBRA; the rates were exorbitantly high. NY state seems to be one of the few states without short term coverage unfortunately, so I suppose I have to amend my question to be something along the lines of:

Does anyone know of any cheap, reliable insurance companies and plans for New York state? Also, does anyone have any specific advice (e.g., not "don't get sick") for someone in my position.

Thanks for the replies.

[5andFretless]

Are you eligible for healthyny? Not sure of the web address. My daughter is in your position and uses it. It is about $190 a month for her.

[MJ5150]

What do you mean by "short term" health insurance?

Find a doctor that has good discounts for cash patients. Major medical is an option. Look for a co-op in your area, they normally offer discount health insurance for members. Some credit unions do as well.

-Mike

[agreatheight]

NY State sucks for insurance.

If you are eligible for HealthyNY it's better than nothing. If you are not, insurance for individuals is very expensive in NY. And you can't COBRA University medical, AFAIK.

http://www.ins.state.ny.us/website2/hny/english/hny.htm

Good luck!

[Pilgrim]

I just had a thought - check with your university's alumni association and see if they have a deal to offer alumni. A lot of schools are making arrangements with a whole range of businesses that can provide services. You might have to become a dues-paying member of the alumni association, but that's easy enough.

[marcray]

Call Healthy New York... 1-866-HEALTHY NY (1-866-432-5849)... see if they can help you.... ignore the home page and all that online fuss, just call them and speak to a rep. They are usually very helpful and it may be your best option.

[unclekebm]

Originally Posted by MJ5150

What do you mean by "short term" health insurance?

Find a doctor that has good discounts for cash patients. Major medical is an option. Look for a co-op in your area, they normally offer discount health insurance for members. Some credit unions do as well.

-Mike

+1

[Groovecenter]

I found some decent rates through healthy NY. It looks like I'll be signing up for a HDHP (High Deductible) through Oxford.