The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us in different ways. For many, it has meant a loss of employment, reduced hours of employment, or even loss of job opportunities.

There are so many concerns that run through your mind when you find yourself out of a job. No matter the cause of the loss, the anxiety builds and have to start figuring our financial concerns. The bills will keep coming in and you have to keep feeding your family.  On top of this, you worry about how you will handle medical and dental issues. Here we share with you some options that can get you through this difficult time.

Leftover Benefits

If you have time between the date you are notified that you will no longer be employed and the actual last date of employment, schedule dental work that needs to be done and any necessary preventative care. Also, contact your current medical and dental insurance providers. There may be a period in which your coverage is still active past your last date of employment. Call your dentist and get in to get any work done that will hold you over until you have successfully transitioned into a new position.

COBRA Insurance

Contact your employer and find out your Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act options. Otherwise known as COBRA, this act gives employees who have lost their jobs the ability to continue the plan they were signed up with under their employer for a short period. For employers with 20 or more employees must offer this option to their former employees, but you would be responsible for the entire premium for the plan.

Marketplace Insurance

The insurance marketplace offers people who have lost their jobs and the insurance along with it to purchase a Marketplace plan during a Special Enrollment Period. You do not have to be without insurance as you wait for the next Open Enrollment Period to roll around. Coverage would start the first day of the month following your loss of insurance coverage. Simply complete the Marketplace Application and find out if you qualify for any saving on monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs. You also get to apply for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program at this time to find out if you quality for their free or low-cost health insurance coverage.

Private Plans

There are also several private dental plans on the market that are available directly from the companies themselves or through an agent. Private dental insurance is often reasonably priced and offers enrollment throughout the year and several tiers of coverage that will determine your cost.

Care Credit

While not a dental plan, Care Credit is a finance option that can help you cover healthcare and dental costs. You can use your Care Credit to pay your medical bills at many enrolled providers. The company offers several financing promotions throughout the year. Simply apply by phone through the automated system or with a live agent during the week.

No matter which option works best for your family, remember how important it is to continue to maintain oral health, especially during stressful times. Contact us at the Long Beach dental office of Dr. Stephan A. Coates to ensure your family’s checkups and cleanings are up to date.

Call us at 562-434-6414 or request an appointment here.

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