Posted: 05/12/09
College graduation is a major event for most students. However, with today's economy many students are faced with more than just a depressed job market. For many, graduation means the end of insurance coverage under their parents' employer-sponsored plans and a hard search for discount healthcare options. According to the Commonwealth Fund, a non-profit research group, adults between the ages of 19 to 29 are among the largest and fastest growing group of uninsured people in the country. At age 19 or upon high school graduation, many young people are ineligible for coverage under their parents' plans as well as government programs such as Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. The next big coverage drop occurs at college graduation.
Since young adults are generally healthy, many do not see a need for even discount healthcare insurance. However, they are at risk for accidents and sexually transmitted diseases. Furthermore, chronic health conditions like diabetes and obesity are on the increase. Individual insurance plans are available, but even plans with minimal coverage may prove too costly for those with an entry-level job and student loan debt. Programs that offer healthcare discounts are often another option
Related Links
Kaiser Health: New College Grads Scramble For Insurance In Faltering Economy
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