Californians are fortunate to have the strongest patients' rights laws in the nation. The DMHC is here to make sure these laws are followed and that all health plan members get the right care at the right time. Find out how in this section.
As California's unemployment rate continues to rise, not only are people left without jobs, they are also often left without health coverage. COBRA or Cal-COBRA may help the unemployed keep their group coverage. Last year Governor Schwarzenegger took action to ensure that Californians who lose their jobs through layoff or other involuntary termination while working for a small employer are notified that they may be eligible for a 65 percent subsidy for their Cal-COBRA premiums, available under the federal stimulus bill. This federal subsidy permits eligible individuals to pay only 35 percent of their Cal-COBRA premiums and the remaining 65 percent is reimbursed to the health plans through a tax credit. The premium subsidy is available for up to 15 months. To qualify, individuals must experience a COBRA or Cal-COBRA qualifying event that is the involuntary termination of a covered employee's employment or a reduction in hours and the employee was later involuntarily terminated. You may be eligible for the subsidy if:
The federal law also permits certain eligible individuals who were previously offered COBRA and Cal-COBRA and do not currently have COBRA or Cal-COBRA coverage with a special opportunity to elect coverage and qualify for the subsidy.
Below is more information on both programs.
More COBRA and Cal-COBRA information.
Getting Covered: Finding Health Insurance When You Lose Your Job An information packet developed by Families USA.
Additional information for the unemployed.
