Finding and keeping insurance coverage can be a challenge. The best time to research your options is before you need it. Once you’re no longer a full-time student, it’s unlikely that you can be covered under your parent’s policy. Private insurance is expensive and difficult to obtain, but if you’re knowledgeable, you can find the coverage you need.

Some considerations:

• Large corporations and government agencies usually offer coverage through their group benefits.
• Smaller companies are subject to different federal regulations and may be more problematic.
• You may be eligible through your spouse’s insurance plan.
• Social Security Disability (SSD) is available for workers who are below retirement age, who become disabled, and who meet certain entitlement criteria.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a combined state and federal program for individuals of limited means who are over 65, blind, or disabled.
• Under COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act), employers with more than 20 employees and who sponsor group health plans must offer an opportunity to extend health coverage at group rates when coverage would ordinarily end.
• Under HIPAA (the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act), individuals eligible for group health benefits cannot be denied coverage based on their health or any preexisting condition.
• Medicaid, a federal program administered by each state, can help if you have a low income or are dependent on other agencies.
• Most companies that manufacture clotting factor have assistance programs ranging from temporary apportionments to compassionate programs with few requirements.
• Your county government usually offers help through various local welfare programs.