August 10, 2006 by bob.

Q. My child is attending college in another town and I have her covered under my employer group plan. Is this sufficient coverage or should I take out the plan offered by her college as well.

A. Most likely the plan offered by her college is minimal coverage and is unneccesary as a supplement to your group cover. In addition, her student fees probably cover most, if not all visits to the student clinic.

I would suggest you consider applying for her own policy, separate from your coverage. There are many things that can happen to affect her eligibility under your plan. Also, you may be able to find sufficient coverage for about half the price you are paying now.

Most students rarely visit the doctor and really only need a high deductible plan without copays. Many times you can pick one up for less than $80 per month.

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August 10, 2006 by bob.

Q. I was laid off from my job on June 16th. The following week I went to my doctor. Now I am told I did not have insurance and must pay the doctor for the office charges. I thought I had coverage until the end of the month through my group plan.

A. What you thought doesn’t count . . .

Some plans extend coverage through the end of the month. Others give you to the end of the month and then another 30 days afterward. And some plans stop the last day you worked.

If your plan is governed by COBRA (or a similar state law) you would have the right to convert your coverage provided you paid the premium.

If you have not found replacement coverage you should consider no less than a STM (short term medical) plan such as this one.

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