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Q:  My family plan was under my employer's benefit plan. I was recently laid off and elected the COBRA coverage for the family @ $900 per month. My dependent children were covered under my plan as long as they were enrolled in school, to age 25. My dependent has elected for personal reasons, not to enroll in school this fall- -therefore he may lose his dependent coverage status. Additionally, I expect to be with a new employer shortly and will lose my COBRA eligibility. A complication: my dependent is type 1 diabetic. What are his options under COBRA rights. Kaiser says they will have to undergo medical review. Is this true?

A: Your dependent will still be eligible for COBRA, no longer being a full time student is a second qualifying event.   Your dependents can remain on COBRA for a maximum of 18 months even if you obtain a new job and are not eligible for your new employer’s health insurance.    

You will not lose your COBRA when you start a new job. You can continue with COBRA (up to 18months) until your new employer’s health insurance starts.  As long as you don’t have a lapse in your insurance coverage, your new employer’s health insurance should not exclude or put limitations on pre-existing conditions.   If they have a pre-existing clause you can remain on COBRA for the remainder of the 18 months.