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A federal law commonly known as "Cobra" entitles employees to continue their group health plan coverage for up to 18 months after loss of coverage due to a "qualifying event." A layoff or strike is deemed to be a qualifying event, meaning that you will be entitled to continue your group health plan coverage. Cobra coverage works like this. Within 14 days after you go on strike or layoff, the employer must notify you that you have 60 days in which to exercise your right to continue your health care coverage under the group plan, at your own cost. You will be notified of the cost, which by law may not be more than the actual cost to the employer plus 2%, which is a service charge fee. Should you not exercise your right to continue coverage at your own expense by the end of the option period, your coverage will be terminated retroactively to the beginning of the strike or layoff period. It is common for health plan providers to contract with another agency to provide you with information about your COBRA rights. One such company known as "COBRA-SERVE" is often used. Should you receive information from such a company, you should treat it as if it came from the State System or your health care provider. We will be happy to answer individual questions as they occur, but you can rest assured that this area is closely regulated by Federal law and that difficulties that arise will be worked out in the end. 2005 Medical & Dental COBRA Rates These are the 2005 monthly rates to continue coverage for yourself, your family or an eligible dependent under COBRA coverage in an NWA medical or dental plan.
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